C/2014 Q2 Lovejoy Comet
C/2014 Q2 Lovejoy — comet with 8000-year orbit, 1.2 km nucleus. Most complex organic chemistry detected in any comet. 21 organic species identified including ethanol (C₂H₅OH)…
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| Nucleus size | 1.2 km |
|---|---|
| Orbital period | 8000 years |
| Perihelion | 1.29 AU |
| Aphelion | 727 AU |
| Eccentricity | 0.998 |
| Discovered | 2014 |
| Next perihelion | ~10014 AD |
| Composition | H2O ice, C2H6, CH3OH, NH2, Organics (21 species) |
Details
Most complex organic chemistry detected in any comet. 21 organic species identified including ethanol (C₂H₅OH), glycolaldehyde (CHO-CHO), and complex hydrocarbons. First detection of ethanol and sugar-related molecules in a comet. Important for prebiotic chemistry — demonstrates that complex organic synthesis occurs in interstellar/cometary environments. Volatile-rich composition suggests pristine Oort cloud origin. Scientific value for astrobiology exceeds any mining potential.
Sources / 数据来源
JPL Small-Body Database / IAU Minor Planet Center