Scientists are rethinking how to detect alien life by focusing on planets vastly different from Earth. Instead of searching for familiar biosignatures like oxygen, they’re investigating methyl halides

The study builds on previous research investigating different biosignature gases, including dimethyl sulfide, another potential sign of life. However, methyl halides appear particularly promising because of their strong absorption features in infrared light as well as their potential for high accumulation in a hydrogen-dominated atmosphere.

Scientists discovered that methyl halides, a gas produced by microbes, could be a biosignature for life on distant planets.

Scientists have discovered that alien existence could be hiding in gases on distant planets. New research suggests extraterrestrial beings might exist in gases called methyl halides on faraway worlds.