NASA finds Titan’s lakes may form cell-like structures, hinting at possibility of alien life

Srinagar, July 17: NASA has revealed that Saturn's largest moon, Titan, may naturally produce cell-like compartments called vesicles in its hydrocarbon-rich lakes. These lakes, filled with liquid methane and ethane, provide a unique environment where such structures—vital for forming protocells that support chemical reactions—could emerge on their own.

According to research published on July 10 in the journal International Journal of Astrobiology, the formation of vesicles on Titan is thought to occur through the interaction of amphiphiles, which are molecules that have both "methane-loving" and "methane-avoiding" properties. These molecules can form bilayer structures that resemble cell membranes.

Unlike Earth, Titan features extremely low temperatures and a dense atmosphere rich in nitrogen and methane. Scientists believe these conditions could support the development of life forms unlike anything found on Earth, marking a significant step forward in the search for extraterrestrial life.

"The existence of any vesicles on Titan would demonstrate an increase in order and complexity, which are conditions necessary for the origin of life," Conor Nixon of NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center said in a statement.