That one giant step for mankind took just a few minutes, but it was years of research based on chemistry which made it possible. If we want to really go to places where no one ever went before, we really have to enable even more developments combining various scientific research based on chemistry. Chemistry already is the key to characterizing our moon, the sun, and the other planets, or smaller objects in the solar system. Future exploration of space will require a deep understanding of chemical composition and reactivity of places to be visited, as any manned space mission must be carefully planned to accommodate the unique chemical conditions of the planet or moon, including atmosphere, if any, and composition of the surface and interior areas to be visited.
Compared to other sciences, the study of chemistry in space has been severely neglected. The main reason for this was the inability of chemistry reactor technology to be compatible with a microgravity environment or the inability to be controlled in a remote, automated fashion from Earth. However, with recent advances in flow chemistry technology, analysis, purification, and remote system control this situation can now be reversed, so now is the time to push the advancement of this valuable science towards an equal footing with others in this fascinating area.
In cooperation with other ACS Units, to play through symposia and discussions with appropriate organizations a leading role in
- Identifying new solutions furthering long duration space flight and exploration.
- The creation of technologies, processes, and standards towards performing chemistry in primarily microgravity environments.
- Enabling new chemistry-based inventions that contribute to the economy.
- Educating and communicating with public policy makers and the general public about the importance of chemical research to further developments through space research.