Largest Space Molecules Found in Cat’s Paw Nebula Reveal How the Universe Grew So Complex

Space is a never-ending source of fascination for humans. There is always something new to discover, from the twinkling of stars to swirling galaxies. Just recently, a team of researchers from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) reported the discovery of a new space molecule in a region in space where stellar birth happens.

Buried in Dust Clouds

While exploring a region of intense star birth, a team of scientists found an unknown space molecule in a cosmic spot about 5,550 light-years away. It is part of NGC 6334, also known as the Cat's Paw Nebula.

The research was spearheaded by Zachary T.P. Fried, in collaboration with international scientists from Copenhagen, Virginia, Florida, and France The details of the study are discussed in the paper "Rotational Spectrum and First Interstellar Detection of 2-methoxyethanol Using ALMA Observations of NGC 6334I."

The team's main goal is to understand what molecules can be found in regions of space where stars and solar systems take shape. Investigating the rotational spectra of these molecules enables them to relate how interstellar chemistry evolves along with the process of star and planet formation. To identify a particular molecule, the researchers need to predict its presence, record its spectral signature on Earth, and detect this signature in the universe using telescopes.

Recently, Fried and his colleagues have adopted machine learning techniques to pinpoint molecules for investigation. In 2023, one such model suggested focusing on the presence of a complex molecule called 2-methoxyethanol.

To detect this compound, the scientists measured its rotational spectrum through a collaborative effort with the New College of Florida, University of Lille, and the McGuire laboratory at MIT. The team used the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) to study an area of the nebula called NGC 6334I and IRAS 16293-2422B. Then their findings were compared with existing data.

The examination revealed the presence of 25 rotational lines which match the expected molecular signal in NGC 6334I. This has enabled the researchers to securely detect a complex molecule called 2-methoxyethanol. This compound has never been observed before in the natural world, although its properties had been simulated in laboratories here on Earth.

The discovery was remarkable since the molecule contains 13 atoms. While this may not sound like a lot, only six molecules have been found in space with an atom count beyond this. To date, this molecule represents the largest and most complex "methoxy" molecule found in space. Methoxy (OCH3) refers to a chemical compound containing a methyl group bound to an oxygen atom.

What is 2-methoxyethanol?

Methyl cellosolve (2-methoxyethanol) is a compound which has the formula CH3OCH2CH2OH. It is a clear, colorless liquid known for its mild, pleasant odor. Here on Earth, this substance is commonly used as a solvent with different industrial applications, like inks, coatings, paints, and cleaning products.

In outer space, the vast clouds of gas and clouds where stars are born act as complex chemical environments. Within these regions, a diverse arrangement of these molecules exists, ranging from simple ones to larger, more complex structures.

The discovery of 2-methoxyethanol highlights the chemical processes which can happen in the harsh conditions of deep space. This discovery is a proof that even in the coldest regions of the universe, the conditions exist to create molecules of particular complexity.

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