'Dimer molecules' aid study of exoplanet pressure, hunt for life
Wednesday, March 5, 2014 - 08:30
in Astronomy & Space
Astronomers have developed a new method of gauging the atmospheric pressure of exoplanets, or worlds beyond the solar system, by looking for a certain type of molecule. And if there is life out in space, scientists may one day use this same technique to detect its biosignature -- the telltale chemical signs of its presence -- in the atmosphere of an alien world.