NASA has made an intriguing discovery on the icy moon Enceladus, revealing evidence of a key ingredient for life and a powerful source of energy. A study by NASA indicates the presence of hydrogen cyanide, a molecule crucial to the origin of life, in the plume of ice grains and water vapor emanating from Enceladus. The findings also highlight the existence of an ocean beneath the moon’s icy outer shell, supplying the plume and holding a potent source of chemical energy. The energy source is comprised of several organic compounds, some of which serve as fuel for organisms on Earth.
The study suggests that Enceladus may possess more chemical energy than previously thought, offering conditions conducive to habitability. Lead author Jonah Peter emphasizes that the moon hosts essential molecules for creating the building blocks of life and sustaining life through metabolic reactions.
The discovery builds on earlier evidence found in 2017, indicating chemistry that could support life in Enceladus’ ocean. The presence of carbon dioxide, methane, and hydrogen in the plume suggested a metabolic process called methanogenesis, which produces methane.
Thursday’s study goes further, identifying more powerful and diverse chemical sources than those involved in methane production. The researchers suggest that Enceladus’ ocean might provide substantial energy comparable to a car battery, potentially supporting life.
Unlike previous research that utilized lab experiments and geochemical modeling, this study relies on detailed statistical analyses of data collected by Cassini’s ion and neutral mass spectrometer. By quantifying the information contained in the data, researchers discerned subtle differences in how well various chemical compounds explain the Cassini signal.
The findings offer valuable insights into the potential habitability of Enceladus and the chemical processes occurring within its subsurface ocean, expanding our understanding of the conditions that could support life beyond Earth.
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