Computer graphic of a fullerene molecule of carbon. Like the geodesic domes designed by architect Richard Buckminster Fuller, the molecule has an icosahedral shape. The surface of the "Buckyball" is patterned like a soccer ball. A whole family of fullerenes is now known, each having between 36 and 540 carbon atoms per molecule. These molecules are expected to used in superconductor research, nanometre-scale electronics and lubricants.