Recently, infrared spectral results from ISO have lead to the discovery of molecules which may show us the process of how complex organic molecules are formed in space. Most of the heavier elements in the Universe are locked up in grains. Ice, seen at 3 microns, can coat some of these grains. Many of the grains are made of silicates which absorb and emit light at about 10 microns. So, near-infrared spectral studies can be used to detect these grains and discover the type of environment they are in.
Infrared studies suggest that interstellar dust is an important source of water for all planets.