Why do scientists think there could be life on Europa?
Europa has a thin atmosphere mostly composed of oxygen and water vapor. The atmosphere is believed to come from radiolysis, rather than lifeforms as it does on Earth. Therefore, the existence of an oxygen atmosphere reflects positively on Europa’s ability to sustain life.
Does life exist on Europa?
Europa’s surface is blasted by radiation from Jupiter. That’s a bad thing for life on the surface – it couldn’t survive. But the radiation may create fuel for life in an ocean below the surface. The radiation splits apart water molecules (H2O, made of oxygen and hydrogen) in Europa’s extremely tenuous atmosphere.
What would it be like to live on Europa?
However, residents of Europa would have to deal with the blistering cold. The temperature averages about minus 260 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 160 degrees Celsius) near the equator and minus 370 F (minus 220 C) near the poles, Pappalardo said. Aside from the radiation and cold, a few other dangers exist on Europa.
Why might we expect to find life on Jupiter’s moon Europa?
‘Europa is one of the best candidates for habitability because the liquid water is in direct contact with the silicate mantle. ‘ Another important factor regarding the habitability of the moons is how much radiation from Jupiter is hitting them.
Does life exist on Titan?
Although there is so far no evidence of life on Titan, its complex chemistry and unique environments are certain to make it a destination for continued exploration.
Is there an ocean on Europa?
Like our planet, Europa is thought to have an iron core, a rocky mantle and an ocean of salty water. Unlike Earth, however, Europa’s ocean lies below a shell of ice probably 10 to 15 miles (15 to 25 kilometers) thick and has an estimated depth of 40 to 100 miles (60 to 150 kilometers).
What was the alien in Europa Report?
The visual effects supervisor stated that the creature was based on a cross of an octopus and a squid, with early sketches resembling a jellyfish and a manta ray.
Is Europa report a true story?
The fictional story has its origins in real-life events: It’s based on the November 2011 discovery of water beneath the ice of Jupiter’s moon Europa. …
Is Neptune covered in water?
Neptune is one of two ice giants in the outer solar system (the other is Uranus). Most (80 percent or more) of the planet’s mass is made up of a hot dense fluid of “icy” materials—water, methane and ammonia—above a small, rocky core.