File: 10 October 2026 · Source date: 10 October 2026
From light to chemistry
When a planet passes in front of its star, the molecules in its atmosphere absorb certain wavelengths. Webb's observations of WASP-39 b strongly revealed THE spectral signature of carbon dioxide.
Molecule is not life
Carbon dioxide, methane or oxygen can be produced by both biological and geological processes. For the interpretation of life, the properties of the star, the temperature of the planet, the atmospheric chemistry and the unbalanced molecular combinations should be evaluated together.
Comparative planetary science
Studying a large number of planets in the same ways improves how to interpret a single unusual signal. Today, Webb's spectra provide strong evidence for atmospheric physics; they are not sufficient to confirm extraterrestrial life.
discussion question
How many independent observation methods should be required to claim life on an exoplanet?
Resources and further reading
Nature — Identification of carbon dioxide in an exoplanet atmosphere ↗NASA Webb — WASP-39 b atmosphere ↗Share your answer
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