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Evidence suggests that carbon nanotubes, tiny tubes consisting of pure carbon, could be forged in the envelopes of dust and gas surrounding dying stars. The findings propose a simple, yet elegant mechanism for the formation and survival of complex carbon molecules in space.

Combining atomic-scale sample analysis and models simulating likely conditions in the nascent solar system, a new study reveals clues about the origin of crystals that formed more than 4.5 billion years ago.

The gift will enable the purchase of a nanoscale secondary ion mass spectrometer, an instrument the OSIRIS-REx analysis team will use to help find answers to fundamental questions about the origins of the solar system.

Bennu is almost always on Zoe Zeszut's mind. Her career at the University has revolved around the OSIRIS-REx mission. Her hobbies have, too.

Mimicking conditions thought to exist around dying stars, researchers discovered a mechanism that could explain why planetary nebulae are teeming with complex carbon molecules.

The spectroscopic fingerprints of buckyballs have been observed in space, but questions remain about how these large molecules form. Laboratory experiments have revealed a possible mechanism.