What question did this study set out to answer?

This research aims to develop a robust framework for detecting and vetting exoplanet biosignatures.

June 13, 2026Open Access

Multi-Messenger Framework for Exoplanet Biosignature Detection: Methodology, False-Positive Rejection, and Priority Target Analysis

Key Points

This research aims to develop a robust framework for detecting and vetting exoplanet biosignatures.
Utilized QRCL Multi-Messenger Framework (QRCL-MMF) for biosignature candidate vetting.
Integrated multiple data sources including JWST spectroscopy, TESS transit timing variations, and Gaia astrometry.
Established a Bayesian log-evidence requirement for biosignature claims with abiotic rejection.
Identified TRAPPIST-1 d/e TTV residuals (4 TESS SPOC transits) as preliminary evidence.
K2-18 b exhibited a DMS Z≈3.5 but is only tentative pending further MIRI confirmation.
No biosignatures were claimed for the five priority targets in the MAST database.

Abstract

We present the QRCL Multi-Messenger Framework (QRCL-MMF), a systematic open-source pipeline for rigorous vetting of exoplanet biosignature candidates. The framework integrates JWST transmission spectroscopy (NIRSpec + MIRI LRS), TESS TTV O–C residuals, Gaia DR3 stellar astrometry, and photometric data into a unified Bayesian log-evidence framework requiring Z>10 across dual spectral bands plus abiotic rejection for any claim. Results: TRAPPIST-1 d/e TTV residuals (4 TESS SPOC transits, PRELIMINARY); K2-18 b DMS Z≈3.5 (TENTATIVE; MIRI confirmation required); zero JWST public spectra found for 5 priority targets in MAST. No biosignature claimed. All data public; all evidence SHA-256 hashed.

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