Sunday, July 31, 2005

Spitzer Finds Life Components in Young Universe

"Using Spitzer, scientists have detected organic molecules in galaxies when our universe was one-fourth of its current age of about 14 billion years. These large molecules, known as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, are comprised of carbon and hydrogen. The molecules are considered to be among the building blocks of life."

4 comments:

Kyle said...

Mac -

Why do these stories always seem to be revealing something totally surprising?

I know that other planets and solar systems will have differences from our own, but...

WE have a solar system with myriad planet-types (at least one life-supporting) and a veritable smorgasbord of moons besides.

Doesn't it seem likely that the other systems enjoy equal diversity, and therefore equal chance of life or organic chemistry?

Just seems painfully obvious to me.

Kyle
UFOreflections.blogspot.com

Mac said...

I agree. To me, a much more remarkable find would be "Spitzer discovers early universe devoid of life-creating chemicals."

That would get my attention in a hurry.

Mac said...

This is tantalizing indirect evidence that there could be billion year-old civilizations in our universe. It makes the mind reel.

Kyle said...

Paul and all -

Amen...damned compelling.

Kyle