The hotly look to next generation ofgroundandspace - basedtelescopes could reveal the answer as to whether life exists elsewhere in the universe , by providing observation of rocky planets that we have never been able to see before . One such class of bouldered planets , that if exist would by all odds be found by these new telescope , are those with H - dominate atmospheres .
Whilst ground ’s atmosphere is preponderantly indite of the gases carbon dioxide and nitrogen , an atmosphere full of the unaccented gas H would be easier to detect , as its lower density would enable it to extend much further than an Earth - like one . Although high abundance of atomic number 1 are not in general thought to be conducive to life-time , in expectancy of future surveillance , a squad of investigator from Massachusetts Institute of Technology ( MIT ) , USA , have explored whether life could outlive on a planet with such an standard atmosphere .
To do so , a team led by Professor Sara Seager test whether the single - celledmicroorganismsEscherichia coli(E. coli ) and yeast could grow and reproduce in an surround of 100 percent molecular hydrogen ( H2 ) .
“ Although H2is not eff to be toxic to life in either minor or large quantities … microorganisms have not been render to grow in pure 100 percent H2atmospheres before , ” the source wrote in their article , write inNature Astronomy .
In their lab - based experimentation , the team let on that both the bacteriaE. coli(representative ofprokaryotemicroorganisms ) and the fungus yeast ( representative of the more complexeukaryoticmicroorganisms ) procreate as normal , albeit at a blue rate than in air – 2 times and 2.5 time slower , respectively . The authors attribute this difference to the lack of oxygen in the test ambience .
nevertheless , Seager told IFLScience that their findings " demonstrate to astronomers that hydrogen does n’t toss off or deter life ’s survival and growth . " In fact , the team also noted that many gases give off by microorganisms likeE. colicould be observe in exoplanet atmospheres if built up in sizeable abundances , serving as possible a sign of life . Many of these gas are already proposed as potential “ biosignature ” flatulency , such as ammonia and nitrous oxide .
" The simpleE. coliproduces an stupefying stove of gaseous state , giving us hope that uncomplicated life elsewhere can create gases that might be assign to life , " Seager said .
Seager and her fellow ' upshot hint that life could still live even in some of the more unlikely large jolting exoplanets . " We should open up our minds to what kind of planet we debate habitable , to increase our chances of find signs of life beyond Earth , " Seagar remarked .
As the next generation of telescopes start to become functional in the next few long time , their observations will be hotly anticipated .
