Physics Research Conference

At least five moons in the outer solar system may harbor liquid water oceans. These oceans have likely persisted for much of the history of the solar system and as a result they are highly compelling targets in our search for life beyond Earth. Dr. Hand will explain the science behind why we think we know these oceans exist and what we know about the physical and chemical conditions that likely persist on these worlds. He will focus on the surface chemistry of Jupiter¹s moon Europa and connect laboratory spectroscopic measurements to ground and space-based observations of Europa¹s surface.