Scientists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge and Cardiff Universities have suggested that the presence of ammonia in the atmosphere of Venus may indicate the existence of life. The researchers believe that ammonia, produced in large quantities by cyanobacteria, converts sulfuric acid from the planet's clouds into a salt compound. This process allows bacteria to create their own habitat.

Venus is the planet closest to Earth. The temperature on its surface reaches 462 ° C. Venus is covered with an opaque layer of sulfuric acid clouds that create a greenhouse effect.

The scientific group admits that it was in the clouds that life could evolve, since the temperature and pressure in them are more controllable. Observations of the planet have shown that its atmosphere contains elements uncharacteristic of Venus. In 2020, scientists discovered phosphine above the planet's surface, which is likely produced by microorganisms. However, further research has shown that the amount of gas is not as significant as previously thought, although the sources of its origin remain unknown.

One of the authors of the work, Sarah Seeger, says that the discovery of phosphine has revived scientists' interest in the study of Venus. She believes that there should be no ammonia on the planet, since there is very little hydrogen in the atmosphere. According to Seeger, any gas that enters the field of vision of scientists raises their suspicion due to the possibility of organic origin.

The researchers refer to the fact that abiotic processes are unable to produce ammonia, but its presence on Venus was proved by the Venera-8 and Pioneer vehicles. Seeger notes that no life could survive in the clouds of the planet, except for one that was able to change the environment to suit its needs.

Scientists do not exclude that the observed anomalies could be caused by dust and minerals entering the atmosphere. However, this would be indicated by volcanic activity, collisions with meteorites and other phenomena.

In June, NASA announced that it was preparing two Venus exploration missions. Their launch is scheduled for 2028-2030. ESA will also send EnVision to the planet, which will undertake a comprehensive study of Venus from its core to the upper atmosphere. The launch of the device will take place in the next decade.

In the middle of the month, MIT scientists presented a plan to study Venus to detect signs of vital activity. Rocket Lab will send the Photon spacecraft to the planet for five months.

bbabo.Net