In a recent study of Enceladus (a geologically active moon in orbit around the planet Saturn), scientists discovered the presence of organic molecules and pre-biotic material in a plume of ice and water that was jetting out of one the moon's many geysers. According to researchers, this "Organic Soup" may be an indicator that extraterrestrial life may be possible in that portion of the galaxy. The observations of Enceladus were undertaken by the Cassini-Huygens spacecraft which is on a continuing mission to study Saturn and its moons.
Fast Facts:
- Enceladus is the sixth largest moon of Saturn
- Observations made by the Cassini-Huygens spacecraft
- Elements present: Water Vapor, Methane, Carbon Monoxide, Carbon Dioxide and more
- Surface temperature of Enceladus can reach -201° C (-330° F).
