Discovery of Ozone on Callisto, Jupiter’s Moon: 2 April 2024

Why in news?

Team led by PRL Ahmedabad finds ozone on Jupiter’s moon Callisto.

Key Points about findings:

• The study focused on the chemical processes and composition of Callisto’s surface.
• Analysis of UV absorption spectra of irradiated ice samples revealed a distinct signature indicating the formation of ozone.
• Researchers compared their findings with data from the Hubble Space Telescope to gain insights into Callisto’s environment and assess the potential habitability of icy moons in the Solar System.
• Significance: 
• The discovery of ozone on Callisto suggests the presence of oxygen, which in turn is a fundamental ingredient required for required for life.
• It could help us to understand the precise mechanisms that led to the formation of Jupiter and its moons.