(RTHK) Potential Biosignatures of Extraterrestrial Life on Exoplanet K2-18b

Prof. Quentin Parker, Director of the University of Hong Kong’s Laboratory for Space Research, discussed the potential detection of biosignatures, including dimethyl sulfide, on exoplanet K2-18b, 124 light years away, using the James Webb Space Telescope.

This three-sigma (99.7% confidence) finding suggests possible microbial life, as the chemical is biologically produced on Earth. However, some scientists caution that non-biological processes could explain it. Parker believes life is widespread in the universe, citing Earth’s early life formation. He anticipates more discoveries but notes five-sigma certainty is needed for confirmation. The debate continues over biological versus abiotic origins.

https://www.rthk.hk/radio/radio3/programme/backchat/episode/1018037