A Search for Hydroxylamine (NH2OH) toward Select Astronomical Sources

TL;DR

This study conducted observational searches for hydroxylamine (NH2OH) in various astronomical sources but did not detect it, setting upper limits much lower than theoretical predictions, prompting reconsideration of its abundance in space.

Contribution

The paper provides the first observational search for NH2OH in multiple sources and establishes stringent upper limits, challenging existing chemical models.

Findings

No detection of NH2OH in observed sources

Upper limits are significantly lower than model predictions

Results suggest revisions to astrochemical models are needed

Abstract

Observations of 14 rotational transitions of hydroxylamine (NH2OH) using the NRAO 12 m Telescope on Kitt Peak are reported towards IRC+10216, Orion KL, Orion S, Sgr B2(N), Sgr B2(OH), W3IRS5, and W51M. Although recent models suggest the presence of NH2OH in high abundance, these observations resulted in non-detection. Upper limits are calculated to be as much as six orders of magnitude lower than predicted by models. Possible explanations for the lower than expected abundance are explored.