Does NASA's Europa Clipper mission still have hope?

Yes, NASA's Europa Clipper mission continues its journey to Europa to search for signs of habitability, despite recent study findings.

What are the new findings about Europa's ocean?

A new study indicates Europa's deep ocean likely lacks the underwater geologic activity necessary to support contemporary life.

Why was Europa considered a good place to find life?

Europa was thought to have a vast, deep ocean of liquid saltwater beneath its icy crust, potentially containing ingredients for life.

Home / Science / Europa's Ocean: Life's Spark Dimmed by New Study

Europa's Ocean: Life's Spark Dimmed by New Study

9 Jan

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Summary

New study doubts Europa's deep ocean can support life.
Europa likely lacks necessary underwater geologic activity.
NASA's Europa Clipper mission is currently en route.

Europa's Ocean: Life's Spark Dimmed by New Study

A recent study has cast significant doubt on the habitability of Jupiter's moon Europa, a celestial body long considered a prime candidate for harboring extraterrestrial life. Scientists now suggest that Europa's vast subsurface ocean may be geologically inactive, diminishing the likelihood of conditions supporting contemporary life. This challenges earlier theories that pointed to organic compounds and energy sources beneath its icy crust.

The research, led by planetary scientist Paul Byrne, analyzed Europa's size, core composition, and gravitational interactions with Jupiter. The findings indicate that any internal heat sources likely dissipated billions of years ago, and the moon lacks the tidal forces seen on other Jovian moons that drive geological activity. This suggests a quiet seafloor, devoid of active volcanoes or hydrothermal vents, essential for nutrient and chemical energy production that fuels life on Earth.