Which spectroscopy method is commonly used to identify molecules in space?

Infrared spectroscopy is widely used to identify molecules in space because many interstellar molecules absorb and emit infrared radiation at characteristic wavelengths. This method is especially useful for detecting polyatomic molecules that exhibit vibrational transitions in the infrared spectrum. Since dust clouds absorb visible light but allow infrared to pass through, infrared telescopes like JWST can penetrate deep into star-forming regions, detecting complex organic molecules and water in protoplanetary disks. Infrared spectroscopy also helps in understanding temperature distributions and the physical conditions in space, making it essential for astrochemical studies.