The study, led by researchers at the Southwest Research Institute (SwRI), utilized data from NASA's Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA). This airborne observatory, which sadly retired in 2022, was able to detect the telltale signature of water molecules on two asteroids: Iris and Massalia.
These aren't just any asteroids. Iris, with a diameter of 199 kilometers, is among the largest in the asteroid belt, orbiting between Mars and Jupiter. Massalia, slightly smaller at 135 kilometers, shares a similar orbit. Both were chosen for their composition, rich in silicates, which are known to trap water molecules within their structures.
The discovery is significant for several reasons:
- Direct confirmation: Previously, water on asteroids was primarily inferred from the presence of hydroxyl (OH) groups, which can also be bound to other elements. This is the first time we've directly detected water molecules themselves.
- Expanding water's reach: This finding suggests that water may be more prevalent in our solar system than previously thought, potentially existing even in seemingly dry environments like asteroids.
- Clues to the past: Understanding how water is distributed in the solar system can help us piece together the history of our planets and the origins of life. Asteroids, considered remnants of the early solar system, could hold valuable clues about the delivery of water to Earth.
However, it's important to note that the water detected on these asteroids isn't like the liquid water we're familiar with on Earth. Due to the harsh conditions in space, it's likely bound to the minerals within the asteroid or exists as ice trapped beneath the surface.
This discovery is just the beginning. Future missions and telescopes, like the James Webb Space Telescope, will allow us to study asteroids in even greater detail, further unraveling the mysteries of water and its potential role in life beyond Earth. Stay tuned for exciting updates as we continue to explore our cosmic neighborhood!
Further Resources:
- Original research paper: https://www.nature.com/articles/d42473-021-00388-w
- NASA news release: https://www.nasa.gov/solar-system/nasas-webb-finds-water-and-a-new-mystery-in-rare-main-belt-comet/
- SOFIA website: https://science.nasa.gov/mission/sofia/