JWST spots a mysterious molecule signature on Pluto and Titan

New JWST observations reveal a 5.11‑micrometer absorption line in the spectra of Pluto and Saturn’s moon Titan, hinting at a molecule not yet seen on any solar‑system body or exoplanet. The researchers discuss plausible candidates—benzene with an unknown partner or other hydrocarbons such as acetylene/ketene ice—but emphasize that this is not yet proven and require more data. Pluto’s line is thicker than Titan’s, and Titan’s trailing hemisphere shows a stronger absorption; a future mission like Dragonfly could help identify the substance on Titan and clarify its presence on Pluto.