'124 light-years away': James Webb Telescope is looking for alien life on this planet
Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Manoj Kumar
JWST's Crucial Mission
The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), renowned as the most potent telescope ever launched, will embark on a pivotal observation mission in the quest for extraterrestrial life.
Targeting K2-18b
JWST's focus is now directed towards K2-18b, a distant planet orbiting a red dwarf star located approximately 124 light-years away, as reported by The Times.
Potential Habitable Conditions
Scientists are intrigued by K2-18b's potential to support life, as it is believed to be an ocean-covered world exceeding Earth's size by about 2.6 times.
Search for Dimethyl Sulphide (DMS)
Researchers are particularly interested in detecting dimethyl sulphide (DMS), a gas typically associated with life, with NASA noting its exclusive production by marine phytoplankton on Earth.
Cautious Optimism
While initial JWST data suggests a likelihood of DMS presence exceeding 50%, Dr Nikku Madhusudhan, the study's lead astrophysicist, urges caution, emphasizing the need for further analysis.
Technological Challenges
Despite the potential indication of life, the vast distance to K2-18b poses a significant technological challenge, with current probe speeds necessitating over 2.2 million years for travel.
Analysing Atmospheric Composition
JWST's capabilities include spectral analysis of starlight passing through a planet's atmosphere, providing insights into its chemical composition, including methane and carbon dioxide.
Resolving Scientific Mysteries
The upcoming observations also seek to address the longstanding "missing methane problem," offering potential solutions within the next four to six months.
Quest for Answers
This mission not only offers hope in the search for extraterrestrial life but also signifies humanity's relentless pursuit of answers to the age-old question of our place in the universe.