There is a possibility that life could exist in the hidden oceans of Jupiter's moons, specifically Europa and Enceladus. Both of these moons have been found to have liquid water oceans beneath their icy surfaces, which is a crucial ingredient for life. Additionally, both moons have geothermal activity that could provide a source of energy for potential life forms.
Scientists have used data from space missions and telescopes to confirm the presence of hidden oceans on Europa and Enceladus. For example, the Galileo spacecraft detected a magnetic field on Europa, which is consistent with the presence of a subsurface ocean. The Cassini spacecraft also observed plumes of water vapor coming from Enceladus, indicating the presence of a liquid water ocean beneath its surface.
Aside from liquid water, life would also require a source of energy, nutrients, and a stable environment. The hidden oceans of Jupiter's moons may provide all of these conditions, as they have geothermal activity, organic compounds, and potentially habitable environments beneath their icy surfaces.
It is possible that life on Jupiter's moons could be similar to life on Earth, as both environments have liquid water and potential sources of energy. However, it is also possible that life on Jupiter's moons could have evolved differently due to different conditions and environments.
Yes, there are currently plans for future missions to explore the hidden oceans of Europa and Enceladus. NASA's Europa Clipper mission is set to launch in the mid-2020s and will study Europa's potential habitability and search for signs of life. Additionally, the European Space Agency's JUICE mission is set to launch in 2022 and will study the icy moons of Jupiter, with a focus on Ganymede, another moon with a potential subsurface ocean.