Recently, scientists have noticed that big plumes of water vapor, along with what have been identified as ice particles have been emitted by Saturn’s moon, Enceladus. According to the most recent evidence, these vapors and ice particles are being discharged by Enceladus at supersonic speeds. These speeds suggest that both the vapors and the ice articles are coming from a source of liquid water, situated under the icy surface of Enceladus.

The research containing the data and conclusions regarding Enceladus has been published in the “Nature” journal this Wednesday. The study provides further evidence to support the theory that Saturn’s moon Enceladus may indeed have an underground ocean of water. If this is proven to be true, then it may as well be possible for Enceladus to support life, even if said “life” are only microbial organisms. To scientists, microbes are just as an amazing discovery as aliens would be for the Average Joe.

According to various scientists from NASA, such as Candice Hansen of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California, who led the study, water seems to be the only necessary source to sustain life. Of course, energy, nutrients and organics are also vital, yet NASA officials have hinted that there is proof that these also exist on Enceladus. Enceladus is just one of the about 60 moons that form Saturn’s ring, with a diameter of just 310 miles. The plumes of vapor and ice particles shot by the moon – or from the depths of the moon, as evidence shows – are traveling at a speed higher than 1,300 miles per hour.