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How Did a Plane Find the First Molecule in the Universe?

Season 1 Episode 6 | 8m 52s

To understand the dawn of chemistry, scientists can’t use test tubes and flasks: They need a modified Boeing 747 jet. Caitlin Saks and Arlo Pérez Esquivel learn all about NASA’s unique SOFIA (Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy) mission, and how it was used to detect the first type of molecule in the universe: helium hydride.

Aired: 09/15/21
Extras
Can chemistry help us save precious art?
Will antibodies be the heroes of the COVID pandemic?
What can we do to keep our infrastructure—and yes, our cars—running smoothly?
Can we turn atmospheric carbon dioxide into stone to help slow global warming?
We have a plastic waste dilemma. Will innovative biodegradable plastics offer a solution?
Explore the properties of glass and how it forms the basis of the fiber optic network.
Methane—the potent molecule we use to heat our homes—is also seriously heating our planet
Why is water so crucial to us—and to all life on Earth? The clues lie in our sweat.
Latest Episodes
Can chemistry help us save precious art?
Will antibodies be the heroes of the COVID pandemic?
What can we do to keep our infrastructure—and yes, our cars—running smoothly?
Can we turn atmospheric carbon dioxide into stone to help slow global warming?
We have a plastic waste dilemma. Will innovative biodegradable plastics offer a solution?
Explore the properties of glass and how it forms the basis of the fiber optic network.
Methane—the potent molecule we use to heat our homes—is also seriously heating our planet
Why is water so crucial to us—and to all life on Earth? The clues lie in our sweat.