Formation and stability of complex organic compounds in space environments.

Complex organic compounds have been found in extraterrestrial bodies such as meteorites and comets. We confirmed the formation of complex organic compounds that contained amino acid precursors from a mixture of carbon monoxide (or methanol), ammonia and water by radiation or UV. Molecular weights of the complex organics were several thousands. Stability of the complex precursors was studied. When free amino acids were irradiated with gamma rays or synchrotron radiation, they easily decomposed. The complex precursors were, however, much more stable than free amino acid against irradiation. We propose to examine the formation and alteration of amino acid precursors in space by using exposed facility of ISS.