In a terrestrial context, "distant-ocean" refers to deep-sea maritime operations, particularly those by the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) and civilian researchers.
This is the most famous candidate. Scientists at the University of Cambridge have detected methane and carbon dioxide in its atmosphere, suggesting a hydrogen-rich environment and a potentially massive liquid ocean. Distant Ocean
China Maritime Report No. 3: China’s Distant-Ocean Survey Activities In a terrestrial context, "distant-ocean" refers to deep-sea
Astronomers may have found traces of dimethyl sulfide (DMS) on K2-18b. On Earth, this molecule is only produced by life, specifically marine phytoplankton. However, researchers remain cautious as unknown chemical processes could also explain it. Other Candidates: China Maritime Report No
Reports from the U.S. Naval War College note that the PLAN's distant-ocean survey fleet has more than tripled since 2015. 3. Other Interpretations
A "Super-Earth" 48 light-years away that sits in its star’s habitable zone, potentially holding liquid water. 2. China's "Distant-Ocean" Survey Activities