1d:I[2890,["266","static/chunks/870fdd6f-4fcc92c129a57d11.js","970","static/chunks/970-91a3a37cc668faba.js","857","static/chunks/857-3b2a1421afa266d2.js","965","static/chunks/app/podcasts/episode/%5BpodcastEpisodeGuid%5D/page-e939c6b91b4a25d4.js"],"default"] 1e:I[1318,["266","static/chunks/870fdd6f-4fcc92c129a57d11.js","970","static/chunks/970-91a3a37cc668faba.js","857","static/chunks/857-3b2a1421afa266d2.js","965","static/chunks/app/podcasts/episode/%5BpodcastEpisodeGuid%5D/page-e939c6b91b4a25d4.js"],"default"] 1f:T618,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.

Want to hear more space science? Let your voice be heard by emailing shortwave@npr.org!

Also, if you liked this episode, check out our episodes on NASA's future missions to Uranus and our episode on whether Dune could really exist!

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Episode description

Europa Clipper And The Search For Life In Space

Episode description