The University of Western Ontario
Fullerenes in Tc 1: a quantitative study of the interaction oflarge molecules with their radiative environment — The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) will observe the planetary nebula Tc 1, known for its abundance of fullerenes, a type of carbon molecule shaped like a soccer ball. These observations aim to understand the nebula’s unique composition and the role of fullerenes in space. The analysis will determine the types and amounts of elements and molecules in Tc 1. This will help in understanding how fullerenes form and survive in space. The results will provide insights into the lifecycle of stars and the physical and chemical processes in the universe, and the role of large carbonaceous molecules in the evolution of stars and planets.