Primordial organics are across our solar system – but from where, and perhaps towards life?

Talk Synopsis

The past 10 years have changed the global technologies in our lives, with a few examples being generative AI, CRISPR gene editing, smart homes and smart telescopes. In parallel, significant science technologies have also created new instruments, leading to new models of geo-chemistry about our solar system. New analytical instruments can serve to better appreciate the content of organics within meteorite samples. Robotic spacecrafts such as the OSIRIS-REx (Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification, Security–Regolith Explorer) and the Hayabusa2 probe have returned samples from asteroids, which are now being studied by new analytical instruments. This presentation will offer some updates about the latest instruments, results from Bennu, Ryugu and certain meteorite samples, and some interesting twists of hypothetical models for how organic molecules might have transitioned into living systems (abiogenesis).

Bio:  At present, I hold a position of Emeritus Professor of Analytical Chemistry at the University of Toronto (UofT), and have previously served as Vice-President of the UofT, Principal of the UofT Mississauga Campus, senior editor for an international analytical chemistry journal, and as a CSO and advisor for a variety of start-up companies. As a chemistry professor, for decades my research work has focused on creation of new biomaterials and medical/clinical technology. Meteoritics and geo-chemistry have been a parallel step, serving as a diversion from my formal career. Astronomy has always been an interest in my life and I have been a member of RASC since 1981.