The discovery of small polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in interstellar clouds is a breakthrough that could revolutionize our understanding of these molecules in space. The James Webb Space Telescope’s unprecedented sensitivity has revealed the presence of PAHs, with data suggesting up to 20% of Galactic carbon is present as PAHs.
However, previous discoveries have raised questions about the abundances of specific PAH-based molecules found in space. In most cases, identifications were made in a single cloud, Taurus Molecular Cloud 1 (TMC-1), by comparing observed rotational lines with laboratory spectra. The observed abundances are significantly higher than predicted by astrophysical models.
This discrepancy suggests that the destruction channels of PAHs may be overestimated or that molecular formation and stabilization processes are underestimated. Further research is needed to understand these findings, which have significant implications for our understanding of space chemistry.
Source: https://astrobiology.com/2025/06/how-do-organic-molecules-survive-in-space.html