Science Quiz | Is there extraterrestrial life in the solar system?

question:

1. This moon of Jupiter is the most geologically active planetary body in the solar system, and although it is highly unlikely that life exists on it, it is especially important that its activity keeps the Earth very warm. It’s not impossible because it’s not possible. Please name this month.

2. Data collected from 2015 to 2018 suggested that the solar system’s largest asteroids may have large oceans of water underground, but the evidence is weak. Very salty water is still expected to flow to its surface, potentially containing microbial life. Please name this asteroid.

3. The moon is the only planet in the solar system other than Earth to have a complete cycle of liquid on its surface. On earth, it is made of water. Hydrocarbons are present on this moon, indicating the possibility of life. Name the month.

4. This satellite of Neptune has a mysterious feature. It is the only satellite in the solar system that rotates in the opposite direction to its host planet. Scientists expect that radioactive decay of the moon’s interior rocks will release enough heat to keep the watery mantle in a liquid state, increasing the chances of life. Name the month.

5. NASA spacecraft has discovered that this moon of Saturn may contain an ocean of groundwater. The moon also releases plumes containing salt water and organic molecules into space from underground through its icy shell, suggesting the possibility of life. Name the month.

visual:

This is an artist’s impression of a _____ spaceship. NASA plans to launch it in 2023, arrive at Jupiter in 2031, and search for signs of life on the moons Ganymede, Callisto, and Europa. Enter its name in the blank (full format).

answer:

1. Io

2. Ceres

3. Titan

4. Triton

5. Enceladus

Visual: Jupiter Icy Satellite Explorer (JUICE)