Earth microbes survive simulated Enceladus ocean
Scientists led by William Orsi recreated a miniature version of Enceladus's ocean by mixing water, salts, carbonates and powdered rock to match its high alkalinity and rock-water reactions that produce hydrogen. The team tested methanogens sampled from deep-sea hydrothermal vents between Japan and Taiwan and found the microbes thrived even at pH 11. The result strengthens the possibility that life similar to Earth's methanogens could survive on Enceladus and informs planning and detection strategies for future missions that sample plume ice particles or ocean material.
Earth methanogens can survive simulated Enceladus ocean conditions
Context
Robotic spacecraft found plumes and signs of an ocean on Enceladus. Scientists then recreated that ocean in the lab and tested microbes. Next steps may include mission designs that sample ice particles for life.
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