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The Science of The Astrochemistry Laboratory
Here at the Astrochemistry Lab at NASA's Ames Research Center we study the chemistry of astronomical objects within our Solar System and beyond. We are interested in ices and organic compounds that exist in interstellar space and on bodies like comets, asteroids, and moons within our own Solar System. We are particularly interested in exploring the links that may exist between interstellar chemistry and the molecules that may have played important roles in the formation of life on Earth. We would like you to stay a while and read more about what we do and why we do it.
Amino Acids in Interstellar Ice, and Implications for Meteorites
Interstellar Amphiphiles (molecules that form membranes)
Organics in the Diffuse Interstellar Medium
Ices and Microdiamonds in Dense Interstellar Molecular Clouds and Comets
The Production of Prebiotic Organics in Space
The so-called "unidentified" infrared emission features
Diffuse Interstellar Bands (DIBs) and PAHs
Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) and their cations
The Identification of Molecules in the Ices on Planetary Satellites