Stability and Alteration of Amino Acid-Related Compounds in Space Environments - Evaluation by Laboratory and Space Experiments

Abstract

Interplanetary dust particles (IDPs) are promising carrier of extraterrestrial organic compounds. In the Tanpopo Mission, a space experiments by utilizing exposure facility of Japanese Experimental Module, ISS, capture of IDPs and exposure of amino acid-relating compounds including glycine, hydantoins, isovaline, and simulated interplanetary organics are planned. In this paper, we will present the results of preparatory laboratory experiments including irradiation of amino acid-related compunds with soft X-rays, UV and heavy ions. We will also discuss possible alteration of extraterrestrial organic compunds in the proto- and present solar system and its relevance to the origin of life.