Europa: A Hostile Habitat for Life?

New research raises doubts about Europa's potential for supporting life, due to the lack of tectonic and volcanic activity on its ocean floor. The strong rocky seafloor possibly limits chemical interactions necessary for life. Despite having elements vital for habitability, Europa might be barren.

Recent scientific research raises doubts about the potential of Jupiter's moon, Europa, to support life. Although Europa's salty ocean is considered a promising location in the search for extraterrestrial life, the study suggests its oceanic floor is likely inhospitable due to the lack of active tectonic and volcanic activity.

Researchers have modeled Europa's conditions, considering its size, rocky core composition, and Jupiter's gravitational pull. They concluded the moon's rocky seafloor is too strong, making the essential tectonic and volcanic processes – which generate life-supporting chemical energy – unfeasible.

Despite Europa's potentially life-supporting environment, with factors like liquid water, organic chemicals, and energy from tidal heating, the study indicates that the moon may remain a barren celestial body. The findings were published in the journal Nature Communications, providing new insight into Europa's geological characteristics.

(With inputs from agencies.)