This cosmic cloud called Chamaeleon I is nearly 630 light-years away, identified to date as the coldest in the cosmos.
The James Webb Telescope continues to uncover more and more of the mysteries lurking in our solar system and beyond. This month, NASA researchers, using the power of télescope James Webbcame to the conclusion that the cosmic cloud Chamaeleon I is composed of ice reaching record temperatures. Extreme cold but which nevertheless contains very interesting chemical characteristics.
In their press release, the researchers say that “the results provide insight into the formation of ice on interstellar dust grains that will turn into centimeter pebbles from which planets form into disks”. Complicated to understand but, according to astronomer Melissa McClure, still in the press release, “these observations open a new window of study on the formation pathways of the simple and complex molecules that are necessary to manufacture the building blocks of life. »
Chemical properties conducive to the development of life
In their study, NASA researchers found molecules of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen and even sulfur, all frozen in the cosmic cloud. In addition, the team also had the pleasant surprise of identifying frozen carbonyl sulphide, ammonia and even methane. As much chemical components that are conducive to the development of life.
According to astronomer Melissa McClure, the discovery of this cloud and the identification of its chemical composition would both never have been possible without the help of the capabilities of the James Webb telescope which has already managed to capture a “Phantom Galaxy”. Indeed, this telescope is so efficient that, since it was put into service almost six months ago, discoveries about the mysteries of the Universe have multiplied and accelerated considerably. This telescope will definitely allow all astronomy research teams to make new discoveries and, why not, that of life elsewhere than on our planet.
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Source : NASA