Astrobiology
Cryovolcanism
Cryovolcanism refers to volcanic activity on icy celestial bodies, where volatile substances like water, ammonia, or methane erupt instead of molten rock. This phenomenon is observed on moons and dwarf planets in the outer Solar System, significantly influencing their geological landscapes.
Extraterrestrial
The term 'extraterrestrial' refers to anything originating, existing, or occurring outside the Earth or its atmosphere. It is commonly associated with the concept of life beyond Earth, encompassing both microbial organisms and intelligent beings.
Hydrothermal vent
A hydrothermal vent is a seafloor hot spring where seawater circulates through the oceanic crust, becomes heated and chemically altered by underlying magma, and reemerges carrying dissolved minerals that precipitate to form chimney-like structures. These sites, common along mid-ocean ridges and back-arc basins, host dense deep-sea ecosystems based on chemosynthesis rather than sunlight, and are central to studies of geochemistry, mineral deposition, and the origins of life.
Tardigrades
Tardigrades, also known as water bears or moss piglets, are microscopic, eight-legged invertebrates renowned for their resilience to extreme environmental conditions. They inhabit diverse ecosystems worldwide, from deep oceans to high mountain ranges.