Astronomy
The Biochemistry of Icy Moons: Prebiotic Chemistry in Subsurface Oceans
Quick fact
On Jupiter's moon Europa, radiation from Jupiter splits water molecules into oxygen and hydrogen—creating a chemical 'fuel' that, when combined with hydrothermal vent minerals, could power the synthesis of organic compounds like amino acids.
Why this is interesting
Imagine a vast ocean hidden beneath miles of ice, far from the warmth of the Sun. Could life be brewing in that dark, cold water?