'Space Ice' Redefined: Crystalline Grains Hidden in the Cosmos

By Quantum Server Networks | July 2025

Space Ice Crystalline Structure

For decades, scientists believed that ice in the cosmos—known as 'space ice'—existed in an amorphous, disordered state, much like a snapshot of liquid water frozen in time. However, a new study from University College London (UCL) and the University of Cambridge challenges this assumption, revealing that space ice may contain tiny crystalline grains embedded within its structure.

The Cosmic Ice Mystery

Low-density amorphous ice (LDAI), the most common form of ice in the universe, is found in comets, icy moons, and interstellar clouds. Previously thought to lack any structure, this ice was considered a frozen representation of disordered water molecules. But new experiments and simulations suggest otherwise.

According to lead author Dr. Michael B. Davies, computer models and laboratory tests indicate that LDAI actually contains nanometer-sized crystalline regions, slightly wider than a DNA strand. These findings imply that cosmic ice is less like water and more like a hybrid material—partly crystalline, partly amorphous.

Implications for Space and Life

The study, published in Physical Review B, reshapes our understanding of cosmic ice and its role in the universe. From planet formation to galaxy evolution, ice is involved in countless processes. The findings also influence theories like Panspermia, which suggests that life's building blocks were carried to Earth via comets. If ice is partly crystalline, it may be less suited to transport amino acids and other prebiotic materials.

“Ice is potentially a high-performance material in space—it could shield spacecraft or provide fuel,” said Davies. “Knowing its true structure is critical for future space exploration.”

Applications Beyond the Stars

Co-author Professor Christoph Salzmann highlights that the results also raise questions about amorphous materials used in modern technology, such as optical fibers. If tiny crystals are hidden within these materials, removing them could improve performance.

Read the original article on Phys.org

Explore Further

Dive deeper into the study at Physical Review B.

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#AmorphousIce #CrystallineIce #SpaceScience #Astrochemistry #MaterialsScience #PWmat #QuantumInnovation

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