Unambiguous identification of diffuse interstellar band carriers

Determine the molecular carriers responsible for the Diffuse Interstellar Bands and establish their unambiguous identification in interstellar space.

Background

Diffuse Interstellar Bands (DIBs) are commonly associated with near-ultraviolet to near-infrared absorption signals from complex molecular species, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and related large cyclic molecules. Although such species are important candidates for explaining the observed interstellar absorption features, the specific carriers have not been conclusively identified.

The paper highlights this unresolved identification problem while motivating further study of complex cyclic and aromatic molecules in interstellar environments. Resolving the carriers would improve understanding of the composition and chemistry of interstellar matter.