NASA's Europa Clipper has launched — and it's searching for signs of life

NPR | By Regina G. Barber,

Jessica Yung

Published October 16, 2024 at 10:22 AM EDT

An artist's concept of NASA's Europa Clipper spacecraft as it flies by this moon of Jupiter (depicted in the background).

NASA's Europa Clipper mission launched Monday, beginning its years-long journey to the distant icy moon it's named after. This mission is designed to tell scientists more about the structure, the interior and the habitability of Europa, one of the four large moons of Jupiter. Host Regina G. Barber talks with astrobiologist and friend of the show Mike Wong about why their mutual love for this fascinating moon and what it means for the search for life outside of Earth. Plus, they talk about other icy moons that may also have the trifecta of ingredients needed to sustain life: liquid water, specific elements and an energy source.
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This episode was produced by Rebecca Ramirez, edited by Jessica Yung and fact-checked by Tyler Jones. Kwesi Lee was the audio engineer.