Scientist Steven Squyres is given a “blank check” and asked how he would direct the exploration of the Jovian satellite, Europa. Observations of the moon lead scientists to believe that there is a liquid water ocean underneath miles of ice. Coupled with the discovery of organisms thriving around geothermal vents deep within our own seas, many scientists are eager to look beneath the surface of Europa for signs of extraterrestrial life.

Image courtesy of NASA Goddard Photo and Video; Recorded June 2010; Posted April 2011