The Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian
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Image List

Complex Organic Molecules Discovered in Infant Star System

  • Artist impression of the protoplanetary disk surrounding the young star MWC 480. ALMA has detected the complex organic molecule methyl cyanide in the outer reaches of the disk in the region where comets are believed to form. This is another indication that complex organic chemistry, and potentially the conditions necessary for life, are universal.

    Artist impression of the protoplanetary disk surrounding the young star MWC 480. ALMA has detected the complex organic molecule methyl cyanide in the outer reaches of the disk in the region where comets are believed to form. This is another indication that complex organic chemistry, and potentially the conditions necessary for life, are universal.

    B. Saxton (NRAO/AUI/NSF)

    Low Resolution Image

    High Resolution Image