In this captivating episode, we host Dr. McGuire, whose groundbreaking work in radio astronomy offers new insights into the presence and identification of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in space. PAHs are abundant in many astronomical objects as shown by mid-infrared spectroscopy, but the challenge of determining specific PAH molecules has been a longstanding issue in the field.

Dr. McGuire and his team employed a novel approach to tackle this problem by using a stacking and matched filter analysis to scrutinize radio observations of TMC-1, a region within the interstellar Taurus Molecular Cloud. Their rigorous analysis led to the detection of emissions from two isomers of the small PAH cyanonapthalene, a compound comprising two fused benzene rings with a CN group attached.

This remarkable finding opens up exciting possibilities for understanding the interstellar medium and the formation of PAHs. In this conversation, we delve deeper into the potential in situ gas-phase PAH formation pathways from smaller organic precursor molecules.

Tune in to learn more about the fascinating cosmic chemistry and the potential implications of these discoveries for our understanding of the universe.

Keywords: Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, PAHs, radio astronomy, TMC-1, Taurus Molecular Cloud, cyanonapthalene, interstellar medium, Dr. McGuire.

https://doi.org/10.1126/science.abb7535