Origin of carbon dioxide on Europa’s surface found

Subject: Science and technology

Section: Space technology

Introduction

Europa, one of Jupiter’s largest moons, is characterized by its icy surface.
Beneath this icy crust, a subsurface ocean exists.
Carbon dioxide on Europa’s surface has posed a mystery, prompting investigations into its source.

Source of Carbon Dioxide

Researchers used data from the James Webb Space Telescope to determine the origin of carbon dioxide on Europa.
Recent discoveries strongly indicate that the carbon dioxide found on Europa’s surface originates from its subsurface ocean.
Understanding the presence of carbon dioxide in this context is pivotal for evaluating Europa’s habitability.

Challenges in Identifying the Source

Previous observations left scientists with multiple hypotheses:
- Direct emanation from the subsurface ocean
- Delivery via meteorite impacts, or
- Generation on the surface through interactions with Jupiter’s magnetosphere.

Evidence Supporting Subsurface Origin in Tara Regio

Two independent studies utilized near-infrared spectroscopy to examine Europa’s surface carbon dioxide.
Dr. Samantha Trumbo and her team meticulously mapped carbon dioxide distribution, discovering concentrated hotspots in the Tara Regio region, known for geological disturbances.
Another study, led by Dr. Geronimo Villanueva, found mixed carbon dioxide compounds on the surface and inconclusive isotopic ratios.
Despite hints of volatile plumes in previous studies, the James Webb Space Telescope’s observations did not detect such activity.

NIRS (Near-Infrared Spectroscopy):