Life in Europa's ocean could feed on rocks' radioactive decay: After series of bleak findings, theory sparks hope for alternative energy source within Jupiter's intriguing moon.

  • Published In: Sciencemag.org, 2025. P. N.PAG 1 of 3

  • Database: Applied Science & Technology Source Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Richter, Hannah 3 of 3

Abstract

The article discusses the potential for life on Jupiter's moon Europa, focusing on a new hypothesis that suggests radioactive elements in its rocky interior could provide energy for microbial life in its subsurface ocean. Despite previous concerns about Europa's thick icy crust limiting heat and geological activity, research presented by a planetary scientist at NASA proposes that the decay of radioactive isotopes like uranium-235, uranium-238, and potassium-40 could generate sufficient energy to support a significant biomass. This theory opens up new possibilities for where life could exist within Europa's ocean, independent of hydrothermal vents. Future investigations by NASA's Europa Clipper mission may further explore this hypothesis by detecting argon-40, a product of potassium-40 decay, in the moon's atmosphere. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Sciencemag.org. 2025/12, pN.PAG
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Geology
  • Publication Date:2025
  • Accession Number:190556149
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