How Scientists Found the First Type of Molecule in the Universe - SciShow News

The video discusses the formation of the first molecule, helium hydride, after the Big Bang and the challenges scientists faced in detecting it in space. Despite its creation in labs since 1925, helium hydride ions were elusive due to their reactivity. Scientists focused on planetary nebulas like NGC 7027 to find these ions. Technological advancements, such as the SOFIA observatory, enabled the detection of helium hydride, confirming theories about early universe chemistry and aiding in understanding molecular formation in radiated environments.

What technological advancement allowed astronomers to detect helium hydride ions?

How does the detection of helium hydride ions contribute to our understanding of the early universe?