Are there aliens broadcasting from Hycean world K2-18b? Astronomers just listened in
Phys.org
February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Astronomers have turned their attention to K2-18b, an exoplanet located 124 light years away in the constellation Leo, as they explore whether this distant world could host alien life or even broadcasts from extraterrestrial civilizations. Known for its unique characteristics, K2-18b orbits a red dwarf star and lies within its habitable zone, making it one of the most promising candidates for supporting life as we know it. Recent observations by the James Webb Space Telescope revealed that its atmosphere is rich in carbon dioxide and methane, further fueling speculation about its potential to sustain life. This has led scientists to classify K2-18b as a "Hycean" world—a rare type of planet with a thick hydrogen-rich atmosphere covering a global ocean of liquid water.
The study of K2-18b began several years ago when it was identified as a key target for exoplanet research due to its proximity to the habitable zone and its potential to host liquid water. Its atmosphere, composed primarily of hydrogen, is thought to trap heat, creating conditions that could allow for the existence of water in a liquid state beneath the gas layer. This combination of factors makes K2-18b one of the few exoplanets where life as we know it might potentially thrive. The presence of carbon dioxide and methane adds another layer of intrigue,
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Originally published on Phys.org on 2/24/2026