'Robot missions': NASA aims to uncover life biosignatures on Europa and Enceladus
Produced by: Tarun Mishra
Potential for Life
Europa and Enceladus, moons of Jupiter and Saturn respectively, are considered prime candidates in the search for extraterrestrial life due to their subsurface oceans.
Complex Organic Molecules
Scientists believe complex organic molecules, such as amino acids and nucleic acids, may exist just below the frozen surfaces of these moons, potentially indicating life.
Radiation Challenges
The harsh radiation from the sun, along with cosmic rays from supernovas, bombards the surfaces of Europa and Enceladus, destroying complex organic molecules on the surface.
Subsurface Sampling
Future robotic missions aim to dig below the icy crusts of these moons to find and analyze these biosignatures. On Europa, researchers suggest a sampling depth of about 8 inches at high latitudes to avoid radiation-damaged areas.
Enceladus' Advantage
On Enceladus, biosignatures might be easier to detect, as they could survive just a few millimeters below the surface, reducing the need for extensive digging.
Plume Sampling
Enceladus presents a unique opportunity with its geyser-like plumes, which eject material from its subsurface ocean. Orbiting missions could potentially capture these plumes directly, eliminating the need for a lander.
Harsh Conditions
Both moons face extreme conditions: frigid temperatures, lack of atmosphere, and constant exposure to energetic particles. Despite this, the possibility of liquid water oceans beneath their icy shells keeps the hope of finding life alive.
Geothermal Heating
The gravitational interactions with their parent planets generate geothermal heat, which could create a stable environment for life in the subsurface oceans of Europa and Enceladus.
Future Missions
These findings fuel ongoing interest and future missions aimed at exploring these moons further, with the goal of uncovering potential signs of life hidden within their icy shells.