Life-Bearing Lake Possible On Icy Jupiter Moon 112
astroengine writes "New research shows the jumbled ice blocks crowning the surface of Jupiter's icy moon Europa are signs of large liquid lakes below, a key finding in the search for places where life might exist beyond Earth. Drawing from studies of underground volcanoes in Iceland and Antarctica, scientists ran computer models to see if the chaotic formations on Europa's surface could be explained by the same geologic processes seen on Earth. It turns out that not only could this be further evidence for a sub-surface ocean, but also a mechanism that mixes ice and water, circulating nutrients and energy to get from the frozen surface to the ocean below."
Cool (Score:2, Insightful)
Let's go have a look.
Re:send a probe! (Score:5, Insightful)
Most likely microbes
Even single celled organisms [discovermagazine.com] can be quite amazing right here on earth. These puppies were recently found in the depths of our oceans. I can't wait to see what life will come up with on another planet/moon with a totally different set of playing rules.
I only meddle in biology, but what I have learned is that for each time you think that life can't get any stranger, you soon enough discover something that proves you wrong yet again.
If only we had a space program ... (Score:5, Insightful)
All these worlds are yours except Europa. Attempt no landing there.
If only we had a space program that would warrant such a warning.
Re:If only we had a space program ... (Score:3, Insightful)
Mod parent +5, depressing.
Re:It's life, Jim (Score:5, Insightful)
If but one in a billion planets has life, there is a LOT of life out there.
Re:If only we had a space program ... (Score:2, Insightful)
Re:If only we had a space program ... (Score:5, Insightful)
Re:If only we had a space program ... (Score:5, Insightful)