PortalsOS

Nick Lane argues that life on other planets is likely to be carbon-based and water-dependent due to the commonality of these elements. He suggests that out of a thousand planets with life, 999 might follow this pattern, with only one being radically different.

Astronomers have spotted a cloud of debris in the same field as an already confirmed planet circling a star, suggesting the potential existence of two planets sharing the same orbit.

Hydrothermal vents, driven by the mineral olivine, are likely to be found on any wet, rocky planet. These vents produce hydrogen gas in alkaline fluids, a fundamental process that could lead to the emergence of life.

The emergence of eukaryotes is seen as a major bottleneck in the development of complex life. Despite the vast number of planets that could potentially give rise to eukaryotes, it seems this event is incredibly rare, with Earth being a unique example.

Despite the vast number of planets, the unique development of eukaryotes on Earth suggests that while other methods of achieving complexity might exist, they are not easily realized in nature.