Why astronomers are unconvinced K2-18b is residence to alien life : Quick Wave : NPR

This creative rendering of what an exoplanet like K2-18b, a doable water world, may appear like.

NASA, CSA, ESA, J. Olmsted (STScI)

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NASA, CSA, ESA, J. Olmsted (STScI)

This creative rendering of what an exoplanet like K2-18b, a doable water world, may appear like.

NASA, CSA, ESA, J. Olmsted (STScI)

Just lately, a bunch of scientists claimed they discovered doable indicators of life on a planet referred to as K2-18b. The information made headlines. Researchers stated they’d detected sulphur-based gases that, on Earth, are strongly related to life.

However the analysis precipitated an uproar in astronomy circles as a result of different scientists do not assume the info is powerful sufficient to have a good time an alien discover simply but. In truth, they’ve some actual points with how this entire factor went down, and a brand new evaluation casts additional doubt on the findings.

NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce is right here to wade into the controversy — and inform us what all this implies for the way forward for trying to find life past our photo voltaic system.

Wish to hear extra about new science analysis? Tell us by emailing shortwave@npr.org.

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This episode was produced by Berly McCoy, edited by Rebecca Ramirez and reality checked by Tyler Jones and Nell Greenfieldboyce. The audio engineer was Maggie Luthar.