NASA Discovery: Origin of Life on Earth Explained
- This article details recent discoveries made from samples collected by the OSIRIS-REx mission from the asteroid Bennu.
- * RNA Building Blocks: Researchers detected ribose, a key component of RNA, but not deoxyribose (the sugar in DNA).
- In essence, the Bennu samples are providing insights into the chemical ingredients and conditions that may have been present in the early solar system, possibly contributing to the...
Summary of Findings from Asteroid bennu Samples
This article details recent discoveries made from samples collected by the OSIRIS-REx mission from the asteroid Bennu. Here’s a breakdown of the key findings:
* RNA Building Blocks: Researchers detected ribose, a key component of RNA, but not deoxyribose (the sugar in DNA). This suggests ribose was more common in the early solar system. The presence of glucose also indicates early energy sources. Importantly, this doesn’t indicate life on Bennu, but rather the widespread availability of chemical building blocks.
* Rubbery Material: A previously unknown, rubbery polymer containing nitrogen and oxygen was found within the space rocks. This material was originally soft and flexible but hardened over time.
* Formation of Rubbery Material: Scientists believe this material formed when the parent asteroid was heated, causing soluble compounds (like carbamates) to polymerize into larger, stronger molecules.It behaves like hardened chewing gum and could have been a precursor to prebiotic chemistry.
In essence, the Bennu samples are providing insights into the chemical ingredients and conditions that may have been present in the early solar system, possibly contributing to the origins of life.