Exoplanet K2-18b
In September 2023, the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) made a groundbreaking discovery when it observed the exoplanet K2-18b, located approximately **120 light-years away in the Leo constellation.
This planet is about nine times larger than Earth and is located in its star's habitable zone, where the presence of liquid water is possible. Most importantly, JWST detected the possible existence of methane, carbon dioxide, and dimethyl sulfide (DMS) in its atmosphere.
Dimethyl Sulfide (DMS) is primarily produced by marine phytoplankton on Earth and is known to be generated exclusively by living organisms. Because of this, the presence of DMS on K2-18b could be a significant indication of possible life.
However, some researchers advise caution, as the DMS signal might blend with methane, making it difficult to confirm. As a result, further observations with more sensitive instruments will be necessary to verify this possibility.
Although the detected gases on K2-18b are highly promising, scientists are continuing their research to determine whether the planet is truly suitable for sustaining life.