Space sugar could prove aliens exist
Scientists claim the discovery of sugar in space could help them prove that aliens exist.
The organic sugar molecule - directly linked to the origin of life - was detected in a region of our galaxy 26,000 light-years from Earth by a international team of researchers using the IRAM radio telescope in France.
Experts claim the find highlights an area of space where habitable planets could exist and that a wide spread of the molecule (a key ingredient for life) improves the chances of finding alien life.
Others say they already know aliens exist and this just proves they like sugar in their cups of tea.
The molecule – glycolaldehyde - has previously only been detected towards the centre of our galaxy where conditions are thought to be too extreme for life to exist.
Professor Keith Mason, Chief Executive of the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC), said, "The discovery of an organic sugar molecule in a star forming region of space is very exciting and will provide incredibly useful information in our search for alien life."
Dr Serena Viti of University College London, added, "This is an important discovery as it is the first time glycolaldehyde, a basic sugar, has been detected towards a star-forming region where planets that could potentially harbour life may exist."
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