TED: The fingerprints of life beyond Earth | Clara Sousa-Silva

The video explores the search for alien life by examining biosignatures, particularly focusing on phosphine as a potential indicator. It discusses the challenges of detecting life, the role of quantum astrochemistry, and the recent discovery of phosphine on Venus. The speaker emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to identifying life, considering multiple biosignatures to avoid false positives.

What are some signs that alien astronomers might look for to detect life on Earth 10,000 years ago?

How does the composition of Earth's atmosphere suggest the presence of life?

What is phosphine and why is it considered a potential biosignature?

What challenges exist in confirming the presence of phosphine on Venus?

What are the implications of finding phosphine in the atmosphere of Venus?

Why is it important to look for a network of gases rather than a single molecule when searching for life?

What steps can be taken to better understand the atmosphere of Venus in the search for life?