Scientists explore ocean floor findings that could reveal oxygen on other planets

Scientists have discovered that metal lumps on the ocean floor can produce oxygen, challenging the belief that oxygen only comes from sunlight and plants. They plan to explore deeper ocean areas to investigate this phenomenon further. The research could impact our understanding of life on other planets, as similar processes might occur in their oceans. Collaborations with NASA aim to determine if oxygen production could support microbial life beyond Earth. The initial findings sparked debate among scientists and mining companies, with some questioning the research's validity. Over 900 marine scientists have called for a pause on seabed mining due to environmental concerns related to these discoveries.