James Webb Space Telescope Detects Alcohol and Icy Organic Molecules Around a Protostar Pair
The James Webb Space Telescope has spotted alcohol and other complex organic molecules in icy areas around a pair of young protostars.
The Debrief 2:15 pm on April 11, 2024
Astronomers using the James Webb Space Telescope (Webb) have detected complex organic molecules, including alcohol and acetic acid, in the icy areas surrounding a pair of young protostars, IRAS 2A and IRAS 23385. These findings were made with Webb's Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI) as part of the James Webb Observations of Young ProtoStars (JOYS+) program. The detection of these organic molecules is a promising indicator for future habitability, although no planets have been detected in orbit around the protostars yet.
- Astronomers using JWST detected complex organic molecules around young protostars IRAS 2A and IRAS 23385
- Molecules include alcohol, acetic acid, and simpler ones like methan and formaldehyde
- These findings are a promising indicator for future habitability, despite no planets detected yet
- Complex organic molecules were initially detected in gaseous phase but have now been found in solid phase
- MIRI instrument made these discoveries as part of the JOYS+ program
https://thedebrief.org/james-webb-space-telescope-detects-alcohol-and-icy-organic-molecules-around-a-protostar-pair/