👾 NASA found building blocks of life in asteroid

• Scientists have discovered amino acids and other important molecules for life in samples from the asteroid Bennu.
• 14 of the 20 amino acids used by life on Earth were found in the samples, along with all five nucleobases required for DNA and RNA.
• The analysis also shows traces of 11 minerals formed through saltwater, suggesting that conditions for life may have existed throughout the solar system.

Space samples reveal building blocks of life

NASA's OSIRIS-REx mission delivered samples from asteroid Bennu to Earth in 2023. Analysis now shows that the samples contain several molecules central to life. Scientists have identified 14 of the 20 amino acids used by life on Earth to build proteins. Additionally, all five nucleobases required to store and transfer genetic information in DNA and RNA were discovered.

The samples contained particularly high levels of ammonia, which together with formaldehyde can form amino acids under the right conditions. When amino acids link together, they form proteins - a central part of all biological functions.

Traces of ancient saltwater

Scientists also found 11 different minerals formed through evaporation of saltwater over long periods. These minerals include calcite, halite, and sylvite. A mineral called trona was discovered for the first time in material from space.

Similar building blocks for life have previously been found in meteorites that landed on Earth. What makes the Bennu samples unique is that they were collected directly in space and therefore have not been affected by Earth's environment. This provides a more accurate picture of the original composition of the matter.

Danny Glavin, one of the research leaders at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, explains that the clues they are looking for are very small and easily destroyed upon contact with Earth's environment. Therefore, samples collected directly from space are particularly valuable for research.

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