The Dord of Darien

Musings from the Mayor of the Internet

Titan: big, windy, and not at all solid

Let’s not beat around the bush here: Cassini just discovered that Titan — one of the moons of Saturn — is very likely to have an underground ocean. This is a major find, since one of the things we already know about Titan is that it’s littered with organic compounds. I think we all know what happens when you have organic compounds and liquid water in proximity to one another.

Though, as Phil Plait wisely cautions us, it’s too early to say anything with certainty. It’s always possible that it’s actually an ocean of mercury or some terrible thing like fluorine, or any number of equally non-life-supporting options. But it sure looks promising right now.


March 21st, 2008 Posted by | Shock and awe | 2 comments

2 Comments »

  1. I think an ocean full of mercury-breathing aliens sounds pretty damn cool, myself.

    When they come to take over I’ll be sure to mention that I’ve been on the alien’s side from the beginning. I have a table full of half-painted little bug men to prove it!

    Comment by Ama | 22 March 2008

  2. I forgot to mention — they’re the kind of alien that completely hates the bug kind. Sorry about that.

    Comment by Darien | 22 March 2008

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