CURRENT AFFAIRS

Detailed explanation-1: -Often called Earth’s twin, Venus is roughly the same mass as Earth. Many scientists think that Venus was once covered in water and possessed an atmosphere where life as we know it could have flourished.

Detailed explanation-2: -Unfortunately not. Until we are able to observe any possible Venus microbes directly - perhaps through sample return - the next step would be to rule out all non-life sources of the phosphine. One possibility is volcanoes.

Detailed explanation-3: -Jupiter’s environment is probably not conducive to life as we know it. The temperatures, pressures, and materials that characterize this planet are most likely too extreme and volatile for organisms to adapt to.

Detailed explanation-4: -Scientists at NASA have recently announced that they found a planet that is almost identical (about 95%) to Earth’s size and shape and has a rocky surface. Named TOI 700 e, this new planet orbits within its star’s habitable zone, which also hints at the presence of water on its surface.

Detailed explanation-5: -Venus is an unlikely place for life as we know it, but some scientists theorize microbes might exist high in the clouds where it’s cooler and the pressure is similar to Earth’s surface. Phosphine, a possible indicator of microbial life, has been observed in the clouds.