K2-18b Exoplanet: Potential Biosignatures Detected

K2-18b is a potentially habitable exoplanet located in the habitable zone of its star, known for signs of water vapor in its atmosphere, sparking interest in the search for extraterrestrial life.

Recently, scientists have detected dimethyl sulphide (DMS) and dimethyl disulphide (DMDS) in the atmosphere of the K2-18b exoplanet.
The detection was made by a research team from the University of Cambridge using data from the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST).
These gases are potential biosignatures — substances that (on Earth) are linked to biological activity.
On Earth these gases are produced through:
- Metabolic processes of microorganisms.
- Decay of small plant-like organisms in the oceans (e.g., phytoplankton).
This is the first time these gases have been detected outside our solar system.

About K2-18b Exoplanet

K2-18b Exoplanet is located around 120 light years from Earth.
Host Star: It orbits a red dwarf star that is smaller and cooler than the Sun.
It lies within the “habitable zone” — the region around a star where liquid water can exist.
Past Observations:
- 2019 (Hubble): Detected water vapour in the atmosphere.
- Previous JWST Data: Detected methane and carbon dioxide — both also linked to potential biological processes.