TED Talks Daily The deadly molecule that could signal alien life | Clara Sousa-Silva
Aug 6, 2021
Clara Sousa-Silva is a quantum astrochemist researching molecules that could indicate life beyond Earth. In this conversation, she presents a compelling case for phosphine, a smelly and poisonous molecule, as a potential biosignature on Venus. Sousa-Silva discusses the challenges of identifying atmospheric signatures, especially differentiating biological from non-biological sources. Her insights into how phosphine could point to life in the clouds of Venus open new possibilities in the search for extraterrestrial ecosystems.
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Seeking Alien Life
- Clara Sousa-Silva's job is to find alien life.
- She considers how alien astronomers might perceive Earth and its signs of life.
Detecting Life
- Alien astronomers might have detected signs of technology in the last century.
- Thousands of years ago, they would have noticed Earth's unusual oxygen levels, a possible biosignature.
Quantum Astrochemistry
- As a quantum astrochemist, Sousa-Silva studies the interaction between molecules and light in space.
- She analyzes starlight passing through alien atmospheres to identify biosignatures.