Physics World February 2026

Strange worlds: could icy moons harbour life?

Far from the Sun’s heat, orbiting the outer planets, are moons with oceans of liquid water beneath their frozen surfaces. In this month’s cover feature, Keith Cooper meets the planetary scientists who are investigating whether the icy moons of our solar system hold life beyond our planet. Back down on Earth, you can hear from four future quantum leaders about how to ensure quantum technology can succeed, while theoretical physicist Rob Farr recalls his 25-year career in the food industry and Honor Powrie wonders if entrepreneurism is something that physicists can be taught.

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