The basic building-blocks of life have been identified on a meteor that landed on a frozen lake in northern B.C. (Tagish Lake). The methodology for the recovery of the meteor prevented contamination and it is considered to be the most pristine sample ever obtained.

A thorough investigation by a research team has confirmed that the meteor was home to organic compounds; and, in particular, amino acids and monocarboxylic acids that would have been necessary for the evolution of the first life forms on Earth.

Furthermore, because the meteor was frozen, the ice on the meteor may provide the first uncontaminated sample of extraterrestrial water.

photo credit: calgary.rasc.ca