Largest aromatic molecule found in deep space is double the size of previous record holder

Cyanocoronene

Source: © 2025 Gabi Wenzel et al

Cyanocoronene found in an interstellar nursery

Scientists have identified cyanocoronene for the first time in interstellar space. The molecule, composed of seven interconnected benzene rings and a cyano group was found in the cold, dark molecular cloud TMC-1, a region known for its rich chemistry – a cradle for new stars. This new discovery suggests that even more complex molecules may be common in the cosmos.