Scientists just recreated the universe's first ever molecules — and the results challenge our understanding of the early cosmos

Researchers have recreated the universe's first molecules by simulating early cosmos conditions, discovering that helium hydride ions maintain reaction rates even at low temperatures. This contradicts previous theories and suggests these molecules played a more crucial role in early star formation than scientists thought. The study challenges our understanding of how the first stars formed, as reactions involving helium hydride ions now appear significantly more important for early universe chemistry.