
Nuanced verdicts: scientists' real view on K2-18b and Mars biosignatures
Astrobiologists surveyed after the 2025 exoplanet and Mars biosignature claims showed cautious, non‑binary views: only 6.6% thought life on K2‑18b is probable, and about 15% held that view for Mars, with the majority neutral or skeptical. Strong disagreements faded as evidence differed—remote atmospheric signals for K2‑18b versus direct rock analysis on Mars—highlighting how non-biological processes can mimic biosignatures and how uncertainty drives early conclusions. The authors argue for systematically measuring scientists’ opinions to avoid oversimplified “the science says” narratives, noting this approach could shed light on other contested topics across science.











