A new class of 'waterworld' exoplanets have been found by astronomers, who say that despite being hot, ocean-covered and hydrogen-rich - could support life. Astronomers now say there may be more promising candidates out there, and these Hycean worlds are more numerous than Earth-like planets. A recent study on the mini-Neptune K2-18b found that in certain conditions these planets could support life. The investigation led researchers to identify a new class of planets, Hycean planets, with massive planet-wide oceans beneath hydrogen-rich atmospheres. 'But we think Hycean planets offer a better chance of finding several trace biosignatures.'

Source: The Nation August 26, 2021 00:00 UTC