US EditionNew study adds to the possibility of favorable conditions for life at Saturn’s moon Enceladus
Cassini data from 2008 reveals complex organics including aromatics and esters in Enceladus’ plumes, highlighting its chemically rich ocean that may support biological processes.
- Enceladus, a moon of Saturn, has complex carbon-based molecules indicating it may have conditions suitable for life, according to new research.
- NASA's Cassini spacecraft discovered geyser-like plumes from Enceladus, containing water, salts, and complex carbon-based molecules.
- Researchers found new organic compounds in Enceladus' plumes, suggesting its ocean chemistry is more complex than previously known.
- Nozair Khawaja stated that their findings support future missions to explore Enceladus further, enhancing its habitability potential.
121 Articles
121 Articles
Saturn moon's hidden ocean reveals more evidence of favorable conditions for life, study finds: "Simply phenomenal"
Enceladus has long been considered a prime candidate in the search for life beyond Earth because of its hidden ocean and plumes of water erupting from cracks near its south pole.
Saturn’s icy moon Enceladus just revealed stunning new clues to life
Fresh analysis of Cassini data has revealed new complex organic molecules inside ice grains spewing from Enceladus. These discoveries strengthen the case that the moon’s underground ocean hosts chemistry similar to life’s building blocks on Earth. Scientists now believe Enceladus could be habitable, and plans are underway for a European mission to sample its surface and jets.
Enceladus, Saturn's moon, meets all the requirements to be a living environment that could harbor life, as suggested by data collected by the Cassini space probe before the end of its mission.
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