Author name: Yoko Kebukawa

Advances in analytical techniques are essential for understanding the nature, formation, and evolutionary history of extraterrestrial organic matter. In this chapter, we briefly review analytical techniques used to detect and characterize organic matter in extraterrestrial materials. Mass spectrometry is often coupled with gas chromatography or liquid chromatography for elemental and isotopic analysis, and for identifying specific organic compounds. Spectroscopy involves interaction of molecules with electromagnetic radiation at various wavelengths. Almost every wavelength—from X-rays to radio waves—can be used for spectroscopic measurements. The most major microscopic and nanoscopic techniques are scanning and/or transmission electron microscopy. Spectroscopy and mass spectrometry can also be coupled with microscopic analysis for detailed compositional investigations.

Extraterrestrial organic matter forms in a variety of locations in space through different mechanisms. Its nature, distribution, formation mechanisms and locations are of particular interest. Some organic molecules can even be considered as key players for the emergence of life. Although new organic species are continuously detected in the interstellar media, Solar System bodies, and extraterrestrial materials, their formation and evolution are still not fully understood. Ground-based and space observations can detect organic matter in different objects with a range of complexity and diversity, while laboratory investigations of astromaterials allow detailed characterization of extraterrestrial organic matter with high precision. This issue reviews different aspects of extraterrestrial organic matter, including its origin, evolution, diversity, and delivery.