Researchers from Cornell University propose to use biofluorescence to resolve the stalemate on whether life exists in the cosmos, particularly on exoplanets or planets found beyond the earth’s solar system.
This was based on the report “Biofluorescent Worlds II: Biological Fluorescence Induced by Stellar UV Flares, a New Temporal Biosignature,” published in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society.
The cosmos is a universe comprising of a system with a pattern and order. The issue of whether life thrives in the cosmos has been considerably researched.
Expressly, flares from stars and the consequent protection by biofluorescence of existing life on the planet’s surface may assist in unraveling concealed biospheres.
Using a fluorescent glow in the cosmos
According to Jack O’Malley, a member of Cornell’s research team, the utilization of a fluorescent glow is an innovative way of searching for life in the cosmos.
He wondered how things would be if an alien world thrived quietly through a robust telescope.
Lisa Kaltenegger, Carl Sagan Institute’s director, stipulates that undersea coral utilizes biofluorescence in rendering the sun’s dangerous ultraviolet radiation into safely visible wavelengths. As a result, an attractive radiance is generated.
Ms. Kaltenegger thinks that these life forms may exist in the cosmos.
Astronomers have acknowledged the notion that exoplanets are found in the same area as the universe “prettiest stars” called M-type stars. These stars usually flare, and if life exists in the exoplanets, biofluorescence in beautiful colors can be detected. Explains Kaltenegger:
Such biofluorescence could expose hidden biospheres on new worlds through their temporary glow, when a flare from a star hits the planet.
The next cohort of space-based or earth telescopes can be instrumental in detecting whether glowing biofluorescence exists in the cosmos.
Concealed biospheres in the cosmos
Ultraviolet rays are usually absorbed into safer and longer wavelengths through a procedure known as photoprotective biofluorescence.
Kaltenegger affirms that astronomers can research on this mechanism so that they can unravel whether concealed biospheres thrive in the cosmos.
Astronomers have been making considerable progress in different discoveries. For instance, in 2016, they unearthed Proxima b, a rocky exoplanet, that has habitable capabilities.
Exoplanets will be pivotal in discovering whether life thrives in the cosmos. Similar space studies have revealed the dire consequence of a black hole as it has the potential of swallowing anything on its pathway.
There is much to learn, but understanding is not possible if we remain limited to observing only from the earth’s surface. Space-based observations with new generations of science facilities will give us the necessary vantage to investigate the cosmos that surrounds our own planetary system, as played out on earth.
