New Frontiers in Astrobiology

Covers critical perspectives in Astrobiology post Mars 2020/ExoMars missions

Rebecca Thombre (Edited by), Parag Vaishampayan (Edited by)

9780128241622, Elsevier Science

Paperback, published 21 June 2022

342 pages
23.4 x 19 x 2.2 cm, 0.45 kg

New Frontiers in Astrobiology presents a simple and concise overview of the emerging field of astrobiology. Astrobiology studies the evolution, origin, and future of life on Earth and beyond. This book provides a brief overview of the current research and future status of this fascinating field. The book covers a wide range of topics from the history of astrobiology, the big bang, prebiotic chemistry, theories of the origin of life, extreme environments on Earth, and the quest for intelligent life in space. Currently, there is a critical gap in knowledge related to the future scope of astrobiology and its applications in science and society. The hallmark of the book is that it takes critical perspectives to analyze the new frontiers in astrobiology post Mars 2020/ExoMars missions that encompass the latestdevelopments in the detection of biosignatures and habitability beyond our Solar System (exomoons, exoplanets). The book will be a valuable resource for students, researchers, and scientists who seek greater insights into understanding the current status and future of astrobiology.

1. Standards of evidence in the search for extra-terrestrial life 2. Prebiotic chemistry: From dust to molecules and beyond 3. Astrochemistry: Ingredients of life in space 4. Water and organics in meteorites 5. From building blocks to cells 6. Microbial life in space 7. Habitability in the Solar System beyond the Earth and the search for life 8. Habitable exoplanets 9. Applications of omics in life detection beyond Earth 10. Life detection in space: Current methods and future technologies 11. Future of life in the Solar System and beyond 12. Planetary protection: Scope and future challenges 13. Universal constraints to life derived from artificial agents and games

Subject Areas: Space science [TTD]