Astrobiology
1 reportAstrobiology is investigated with imaging, spectroscopy, timing, surveys, and physical models suited to the object or signal. Evidence comes from habitability, prebiotic chemistry, and atmospheric disequilibrium, and competing models remain viable when observations are sparse or indirect.
Life detection missions and habitability form a case with different strengths and limits. Reports examine how contamination is prevented and what makes an environment habitable, comparing competing models without treating agreement as proof of mechanism.
Life detection missions and habitability form a case with different strengths and limits. Reports examine how contamination is prevented and what makes an environment habitable, comparing competing models without treating agreement as proof of mechanism.
Atmosphere Detected on Rocky Exoplanet in Habitable Zone
Astronomers have directly detected helium in the atmosphere of LHS 1140 b, a rocky exoplanet orbiting within its star's habitable zone, using infrared spectroscopy. The finding raises new questions about atmospheric survival and planetary habitability.