The Leiden Ice Database for Astrochemistry

Brief description

The Leiden Ice Database for Astrochemistry (LIDA) host more than 1000 infrared spectra of solid-phase molecules in pure form or mixed in astrophysical relevant ice matrices. The ice spectra are also recorded in temperatures between 10 and ~100K, which are suitable for interstellar and circumstellar regions. The database also hosts UV/vis refractive index of ice samples covering the range between 250 and 750 nm.

Putting in context, the LIDA will help in the data interpretation of observations obtained with the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). Several hours are granted to observe ices between 2022 and 2023. In particular, the Early Release Science Ice Age program (PI. Melissa McClure, co-PI. Harold Linnartz, Co-PI. Adwin Boogert) will observe different regions to track the ice properties at different stages of the protostellar evolution. A few other GO and GTO programs will also be dedicated to ice observations in diverse astrophysical conditions. In this scenario, the LIDA has the primary goal to provide open-access experimental data and to create the conditions to correctly interpret ice observations with JWST.

Featured IR spectrum: water ice