Is there life beyond Earth?Purple bacteria may hold clues to alien life on other planets, study suggests

In the search for extraterrestrial life, scientists are broadening their horizons beyond the traditional image of green alien life. A recent study suggests that alien life forms may actually be purple, specifically purple bacteria. Astronomers are interested in these lavender microbes because of their unique chemical makeup, which may make them well-suited to thriving on distant planets orbiting dark red stars.

The study, led by researchers at Cornell University, aims to expand understanding of potential signs of life beyond Earth’s familiar green chlorophyll organisms. According to co-author Lisa Kaltenegger, purple bacteria’s ability to survive and thrive in different conditions makes it conceivable that purple could become the new green on many different worlds. space.

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The Evolution of Life on Earth: From Purple to Green

Life on Earth provides valuable insights into the possible evolution of life on other planets. The history of our planet reveals the transition from purple microorganisms to the green chlorophyll organisms that dominate the biosphere.

About 2.4 billion years ago, cyanobacteria (the first known photosynthetic species) began using chlorophyll to harness sunlight. This marks a critical moment in Earth’s history, as these tiny blue-green algae release oxygen as a byproduct of their metabolic processes.

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Retina: Unique Feature for Alien Life Detection

Before the advent of chlorophyll-based photosynthesis, microorganisms relied on a purple pigment molecule called retinal to produce energy. Researchers believe that this molecule, if present on other planets, could leave unique signatures detectable by advanced telescopes.

The study’s lead author, Lígia Fonseca Coelho of the Carl Sagan Institute in New York, highlights the adaptability of purple bacteria. She points out that in an environment without competition from green plants and algae, these bacteria can find optimal conditions for photosynthesis under the red sun.

The study highlights the importance of diversifying the search for life beyond Earth’s traditional green creatures. As telescope technology improves, scientists hope they will soon be able to detect the unique signatures of purple bacteria on distant planets, bringing us closer to solving the mysteries of the universe.

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