Astrolaboratory in Alcoi for Astrobiology Studies

Paper number

IAC-06-A1.6.05

Author

Mr. José Canto, Universitat Politècnica de València, Spain

Coauthor

Dr. Miguel A. Satorre, Universitat Politècnica de València, Spain

Coauthor

Dr. Manuel Domingo, Universitat Politècnica de València, Spain

Coauthor

Dr. Oscar Gomis, Universitat Politècnica de València, Spain

Coauthor

Dr. Ramon Luna, Universitat Politècnica de València, Spain

Coauthor

Dr. Carlos Millan, Universitat Politècnica de València, Spain

Coauthor

Dr. Rosario Isabel Vilaplana, Universitat Politècnica de València, Spain

Coauthor

Ms. Santonja Carmina, Universitat Politècnica de València, Spain

Year

2006

Abstract

There are many ways to study materials present in space: observation, theory, computational simulation and with laboratory analogs. Since 2001 an astro-laboratory for physical and chemical studies of material in space is building up in Alcoi. Laboratory experiments are crucial in order to simulate targets or situations where it is impossible to carry out direct measurements. But in the Solar System it is possible to carry out experiments in order to simulate situations as for example seasonal changes in temperature. It is possible also to study chemical changes due to reactions with ions and simulate UV and ion irradiation in controlled environments. All of these studies can be analyzed with different techniques and electromagnetic wavelengths. In this contribution we want to offer a bird view of the instrumentation at the Laboratory for astrophysical characterization ir order to show the possibilities of our laboratory, in order to open possible collaborations.


Different targets can be emulated in laboratory: gases, liquids or solid material as silicates, carbonaceous material or ices. We understand ices as the solid phase of molecules that are gases or liquids in standard conditions; for example it is possible to produce ices of water, methane, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, etc. With this purpose, a particular sample prepared in the system, to emulate a particular scenario, is called ``analog''. It is composed by molecules relevant for a particular astronomical scenario as planets, satellites, comets, TNO's in our Solar System and in the interstellar medium (ISM). Astrochemistry adds another type of solids to our list of analogs, those called organics. And finally, a new branch has appeared in recent years, astrobiology, based on results that support amino acids could be produced in space.

So, the aim of this contribution is to offer a quick look at our capacities so as to show laboratory possibilities to make possible future collaborations.

Abstract document

IAC-06-A1.6.05.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-06-A1.6.05.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

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