Abstract
Molecules and chemical reactions in space may seem improbable, yet they are key players in the formation of stars and galaxies. These molecules survive in the thin plasmas of interstellar space – environments once thought too harsh due to intense radiation. This talk explores how molecules can persist and even thrive in such conditions, highlighting the role of cosmic dust particles in shielding and supporting molecular formation, as well as the role of modern telescopes in the detection and identification of molecules. I will also discuss how the interaction of dense gas with stars and dark matter can probably explain the growth of galaxies and embedded massive black holes over cosmic time.
