The James Webb Space Telescope: Astrochemistry's Exciting New Window!

The James Webb Space Telescope ("Webb"), the new flagship space mission from NASA, can operate with exquisite sensitivity at infrared wavelengths and with two spectrometers on board covering the 1-28 micron wavelength range at medium spectral resolution (R~3000), it is also a fantastic new astrochemistry machine!

Join Ewine van Dishoeck, Professor of Molecular Astrophysics at Leiden University as she presents the fascinating initial results of mid-infrared spectra of gases and ices in various environments, ranging from cold dark clouds to warm protostars and planet-forming disks. During this interactive webinar you will explore the intricate chemistry behind the fascinating ice spectra found in the outer envelopes of protostars, revealing complex molecular evidence. Then delve into the chemical makeup of young and mature disks, unveiling a diverse array of gaseous compounds such as CO, OH, H2O, CO2, C2H2, and HCN, while uncovering exciting discoveries of novel molecules. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness the synergetic interplay of astronomy and chemical physics of our forming solar systems!

This ACS Webinar is co-produced with the ACS PHYS Astrochemistry Subdivision.

What You Will Learn

• A large variation in H2O vs CO2 is found in astronomical sources
• A rich hydrocarbon chemistry--from methane to benzene--is associated with very low-mass stars
• Complex organic molecules are formed in ices