Home > Science > Space Exploration > Planets > Earth
Astrochemistry researcher
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Astrochemistry researcher
Astrochemistry researcher Dr Max Bernstein in his laboratory, where he simulates conditions found in space. Common molecules such as water, ammonia and simple hydrocarbons are mixed in glass bulbs (yellow), and frozen to produce ices such as found in comets and interstellar gas clouds. These ices are exposed to ultraviolet radiation to simulate sunlight. Amino acids, the basic building blocks of life, were detected in 2002 as products of this organic photochemistry. This supports the theories that the origin of life on Earth, and elsewhere in the universe, involved space ice impacting planets and depositing organic materials. Photographed at NASAs Ames Research Center, California, USA
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6401013
© VOLKER STEGER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Alien Research Astrobiological Astrobiology Centre Chemist Exobiological Exobiology Experiment Experimental Extraterrestrial Life Life Nasa Organic Origin Photochemistry Researcher Scientist Synthesis Universe Ames Research Center Bernstein Laboratory
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Science
> Scientists
> Science
> Space Exploration
> Extraterrestrials
> Related Images
> Science
> Space Exploration
> Planets
> Earth
EDITORS COMMENTS
The print captures Astrochemistry researcher Dr Max Bernstein in his laboratory at NASA's Ames Research Center, California. In this fascinating image, Dr Bernstein is seen simulating conditions found in space by mixing common molecules such as water, ammonia, and simple hydrocarbons in glass bulbs that are then frozen to produce ices similar to those found in comets and interstellar gas clouds. To mimic sunlight exposure, these ices are subjected to ultraviolet radiation. The groundbreaking discovery made by Dr Bernstein's research team in 2002 revealed the presence of amino acids - the fundamental building blocks of life - as products of this organic photochemistry process. This significant finding supports theories suggesting that the origin of life on Earth and potentially elsewhere in the universe involved space ice impacting planets and depositing organic materials. It opens up new possibilities for understanding how life may have emerged beyond our planet. Dr Max Bernstein's work exemplifies the interdisciplinary nature of astrobiology, blending chemistry with astronomy and biology to explore questions about extraterrestrial life. His expertise lies at the intersection of various fields including astrochemistry, exobiology, and exochemistry. Through his meticulous experiments and cutting-edge equipment showcased in this photograph, Dr Bernstein contributes valuable insights into our understanding of the universe's origins while shedding light on potential avenues for discovering alien life forms.
MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.
