Universe's first molecule sighted 3,000 light years from Earth
- 5 years ago
WASHINGTON D.C. — NASA has detected the first-ever molecule that formed in the universe, according to a new study published in the journal Nature.
Scientists discovered the molecule helium hydride 3,000 light-years from Earth near a nebula called NGC 7027 in the Milky Way Galaxy.
This is the first time the molecule has been detected in space after scientists tried to create it in a lab almost a century ago, The Guardian reports.
According to a NASA news release, the molecule was located using the Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy or SOFIA.
Researchers believe the molecule formed 100,000 years after the big bang. Helium and hydrogen merged together to form the helium hydride molecule. This molecule is believed to have a crucial role in the beginning of the universe, according to the Guardian.
Scientists discovered the molecule helium hydride 3,000 light-years from Earth near a nebula called NGC 7027 in the Milky Way Galaxy.
This is the first time the molecule has been detected in space after scientists tried to create it in a lab almost a century ago, The Guardian reports.
According to a NASA news release, the molecule was located using the Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy or SOFIA.
Researchers believe the molecule formed 100,000 years after the big bang. Helium and hydrogen merged together to form the helium hydride molecule. This molecule is believed to have a crucial role in the beginning of the universe, according to the Guardian.