Breaking news: Astronomers detect a possible signature of life on a distant planet

Further studies are needed to determine whether K2-18b is inhabited, or even habitable.

View in browser April 16, 2025, 7:18 p.m. ET BREAKING NEWS A. Smith, N. Madhusudhan/University of Cambridge Astronomers Detect a Possible Signature of Life on a Distant Planet A team of researchers is offering what it contends is the strongest indication yet of extraterrestrial life, not in our solar system but on a massive planet, known as K2-18b, that orbits a star 120 light-years from Earth. Read more Need help? Review our newsletter help page or contact us for assistance. You received this email because you signed up for Breaking News from The New York Times. To stop receiving Breaking News, unsubscribe. To opt out of other promotional emails from The Times, including those regarding The Athletic, manage your email settings. To opt out of updates and offers sent from The Athletic, submit a request. Subscribe to The TimesGet The New York Times app Connect with us on: Change Your EmailPrivacy PolicyContact UsCalifornia Notices The New York Times Company. 620 Eighth Avenue New York, NY 10018