Abstract
In March 2008 some simple organic molecules were detected in spectra from two extrasolar planets. Scientists have been excited about this discovery because they believe it suggests the possibility of life evolving on other planets. In previous articles I have argued for the existence of extrasolar planets but have pointed out many problems with theories trying to explain their origin. Researchers using the Spitzer Space Telescope's Infrared Spectrometer detected some simple organic molecules in a star known as AA Tauri. This star is believed to be less than one million years old. It is surrounded by a large dust disk, considered to be a protoplanetary disk that has the potential of forming planets. Gases that have been detected from AA Tauri are acetylene, hydrogen cyanide, carbon dioxide and water. The researchers are beginning to apply a new detection technique for looking at the composition of gases in planetary disks. This new technique focuses on the gases in the disk rather than the dust. The same measurements also found water vapour to be abundant in the disk.