Analysis of asteroid Bennu's sample reveals organic molecules, including those essential for life, suggesting the presence of primordial pools on its parent body. However, the lack of asymmetry in these molecules indicates that life may not have emerged in these ancient environments.
Scientists have discovered intriguing evidence about the early solar system within a sample of asteroid Bennu. This ancient space rock, which orbits primarily between Earth and Mars, is believed to have broken off from a larger body billions of years ago. Analysis of Bennu's sample reveals the presence of organic molecules, including the five nucleic acids that form DNA and RNA, and 14 out of the 20 amino acids essential for protein construction in living organisms.
Additionally, 19 other, less commonly used amino acids were found. The sample also contains a variety of salty minerals, suggesting the existence of ancient, evaporating liquid water pools on Bennu's parent body.These pools, likely formed around 4.6 billion years ago, may have provided the necessary conditions for the development of life's building blocks. However, while they contained the chemical precursors for life, they don't appear to have progressed to the stage of actual living organisms. The composition of Bennu's organic molecules offers clues about this apparent lack of life. Unlike living organisms on Earth, which predominantly utilize left-handed versions of these molecules, Bennu's sample contains equal amounts of both left- and right-handed versions of nucleic and amino acids.This asymmetry may indicate that the brine pools on Bennu's parent body were not conducive to life's emergence. Possible explanations include insufficient duration, incorrect temperature or pH levels, or even the absence of an atmosphere. The findings from Bennu provide valuable insights into the conditions present in the early solar system and the potential for life's origins. By studying these ancient remnants, scientists can piece together a more complete understanding of our cosmic history
ASTEROID BENNU ORGANIC MOLECULES LIFE's BUILDING BLOCKS EARLY SOLAR SYSTEM PRIMORDIAL POOLS
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