The stability of amino acids and related compounds on the Moon -Possible Exobiology Mission of the Moon-

Abstract

Stability of amino acids and related compounds in lunar environments was investigated. Samples added to simulated lunar regolith were more stable than those without regolith upon gamma-irradiation. Bound amino acids (proteins and "simulated interstellar amino acid precursors") were more stable than free amino acids. When amino acids were irradiated after water was removed by freeze-drying, their decomposition was not observed up to dose of 15 kGy. The present results suggest that lunar organic compounds supplied by comets were good targets for future lunar missions.