The James Webb Space Telescope finds carbon dioxide on Jupiter's moon Europa, hinting at potential habitability.
Europa's subsurface ocean has long intrigued scientists for its potential to support life.
The discovery of carbon suggests the ocean may be conducive to life.
Observations indicate the carbon's origin is likely Europa's internal ocean.
The find was made using the JWST's Near-Infrared Spectrograph.
The carbon concentration is highest in a geologically young area called Tara Regio.
The telescope did not confirm the presence of plumes on Europa's surface.
The discovery showcases the JWST's capabilities for significant solar system science.
NASA's Europa Clipper mission, launching in 2024, aims to study Europa's potential for life.
The findings also benefit the European Space Agency's Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer mission.