The Scottish Association for Marine Science ( SAMS ), under the research team led by Professor Andrew Sweetman, will send specially designed sensors to explore so-called ” dark oxygen “, a recently discovered phenomenon that could transform our understanding of the origins of life on Earth and its possible existence on other planets.
An investigation with “dark oxygen”
“Dark oxygen” is produced in total darkness in the depths of the ocean, in a space where sunlight does not reach and photosynthesis is not possible. This discovery was funded with 2 million pounds sterling by The Nippon Foundation, and contradicts the scientific belief that oxygen can only be produced by photosynthesis.
“This new research will allow us to investigate some of these scientific questions. If we prove that oxygen production is possible in the absence of photosynthesis, it will change the way we view the possibility of life on other planets as well. In fact, we are already in discussions with NASA experts who believe that dark oxygen could change our understanding of how life could be sustained on other planets without direct sunlight. ”.
Professor Andrew Sweetman of SAMS.
The research will focus on the Hadal Zone , located between 6,000 and 11,000 meters deep, which represents 45% of the world’s oceans. The sensors deployed are designed to withstand extreme pressures, and will record data on “dark oxygen” such as its relationship with microbial communities. In addition, it will be explored whether hydrogen is released during this process, a possible source of biological energy.
The programme will also analyse how climate change affects biological activity in the deep sea. This approach could shed light on the effects of global warming on one of the most unknown ecosystems on the planet.
Through The Nippon Foundation, the team will develop autonomous platforms capable of descending to 11,000 metres, marking technological advances for marine exploration . “ The discovery of dark oxygen last year was arguably the most significant in SAMS’ history and has reinforced the UK’s position as a world leader in marine exploration ,” said Professor Nick Owens, Director of SAMS.
This project is also supported by UNESCO as part of the Ocean Decade , ensuring answers on “dark oxygen” and its impact on marine biodiversity and the sustainability of life on Earth and beyond.
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Source and photos: SAMS
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