RSC Publishing Blog

The Universe is littered with the debris of dead and dying stars. This debris includes large quantities of micron and sub-micron size dust grains. For generations, astronomers seeking to unravel the complexity of the Universe have been frustrated by such dust blocking their view of many galaxies and the oldest parts of the Universe.

However, we now recognise that these cold dusty regions are in fact the progenitors of evolution in the modern Universe. Rich in chemical complexity, they are known to be the sites of star and planet formation and even the host for molecules that are necessary for the development of life itself.

Join this Faraday Discussion to address the cyclic role of dust in the chemical evolution of the Universe; from its synthesis in aged and dying stars, to grain-grain collisions and the first steps in the construction of new stars and planetary systems. 

This interdisciplinary event will unite leading experts from a variety of backgrounds, including: computational and experimental scientists working to unlock the secrets of the gas-grain interaction; astronomers engaged in observing and understanding star and planet formation and the role of icy dust grains in these processes; chemists and biologists seeking to understand the first tentative steps toward life on our own planet and others!

Registration will open shortly, so keep an eye on the  event webpage for the opportunity to be a part of this truly interactive event.