Strongest evidence of Life on a distant planet
In 2025, scientists from the University of Cambridge the most compelling evidence yet. They suggest possible life on a distant exoplanet named K2-18b, located 124 light years away from Earth in the constellation Leo. Using data collected by NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope, researchers detected chemicals in the planet’s atmosphere that on Earth are produced exclusively by living organisms such as marine phytoplankton.
K2-18b is a “hycean world”: a planet larger than Earth with a hydrogen-rich atmosphere and vast liquid oceans, conditions believed to be favorable for microbial life. The crucial molecules detected are dimethyl sulfide and dimethyl disulfide, gases in Earth’s oceans generated mainly by microbial life. The Cambridge team observed these substances at a significantly higher concentration, increasing the possibility that similar biological processes might occur on K2-18b.
JWST identified methane and carbon dioxide in K2-18b’s atmosphere, indicating the presence of carbon-based molecules that are necessary for life based on a technique called transit spectroscopy. The James Webb Telescope’s powerful instruments enabled a new wavelength analysis that reinforced the initial hints of these biosignature gases.
Despite the overly excitement, researchers urge careful analysis. Moreover, alternative non-biological processes might produce these molecules, and debates continue about the nature and habitability of K2-18b, with some scientists suggesting it might be too hot or have a molten surface unsuitable for life. Under intense stellar radiation, sulfur-bearing compounds like hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) could undergo complex reactions to form DMS or DMDS without life.
This announcement represents a breakthrough in astrobiology, as life may form on K2-18b in the future, with more researchers investigating life on this distant planet.
Scientists find “strongest evidence yet” of life on distant planet K2-18b: “This could be the tipping point” – CBS New
Strongest hints yet of biological activity outside the solar system | EurekAlert!
Scientists find strongest evidence yet of life on an alien planet | CBC New
Scientists find ‘strongest evidence yet’ of life on distant planet – BBC Newsroun