Detection of C60 in embedded young stellar objects, a Herbig Ae/Be star and an unusual post-asymptotic giant branch star.

ABSTRACT The first detection of the C₆₀ (Buckminsterfullerene) molecule in massive embedded young stellar objects (YSOs) is reported. Observations with the Spitzer Infrared Spectrograph reveal the presence of C₆₀ in YSOs ISOGAL-P J174639.6−284126 and SSTGC 372630 in the Central Molecular Zone in the Galactic Centre and in a YSO candidate, 2MASS J06314796+0419381, in the Rosette nebula. The first detection of C₆₀ in a Herbig Ae/Be star, HD 97300, is also reported. These observations extend the range of astrophysical environments in which C₆₀ is found to YSOs and a pre-main-sequence star. C₆₀ excitation and formation mechanisms are discussed in the context of these results, together with its presence and processes in post-asymptotic giant branch objects such as HR 4049. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]