Scientists have discovered new complex organic molecules spewing from Saturn’s moon Enceladus, indicating complex chemical reactions within its underground ocean and strengthening the case for a dedicated ESA mission to the moon.
The study investigates how well bacterial spores maintain their structural and morphological biosignatures after exposure to harsh conditions simulating the surfaces of Enceladus and Europa. It finds that spore structure remains resilient even after exposure to radiation and temperature extremes, suggesting that methods targeting cell morphology could be valuable for future life detection missions.
