British scientists have expressed optimism about proving the existence of alien life soon, following a groundbreaking discovery on the exoplanet K2-18b, located 124 light years from Earth.
Researchers from the University of Cambridge detected chemicals, including dimethyl sulphide (DMS) and dimethyl disulphide (DMDS), produced by simple organisms, suggesting the planet could be teeming with life.
The James Webb Space Telescope was used to identify these chemicals. K2-18b is 8.6 times as massive as Earth and 2.6 times as large, with water vapor and temperatures that could support life.
Professor Nikku Madhusudhan, the lead researcher, believes confirmation of life on K2-18b would indicate that life is common in the galaxy. The planet is considered a Hycean world, potentially possessing a hydrogen-rich atmosphere and a water ocean-covered surface.
Scientists aim to conduct further research to determine if DMS and DMDS can be produced non-biologically at the levels observed. They emphasize the importance of skepticism and rigorous testing to validate their findings.
The discovery marks a potential tipping point in answering the fundamental question of whether we are alone in the universe. Confirmation is expected within one to two years.