Introduction To Astrobiology

Preface / Introduction / What is Life? / Life on Other Planets of our Solar System / General Conditions for the Existence of Life / Origin of Life / Anthropic Principle / Communication with Extra-terrestrial Civilisations / Trips to Alpha Centauri / Information Biomolecules / Bio-geo Chemical Cycles / Future Space Missions of Astrobiological Interest / Emergence of Life / Research outposts on Mars / Appendix / Astrobiology in Education / Glossary of Astronomical Terms / Glossary of Biological Terms / Suggested Reading / Index

Astrobiology is the science that seeks to unravel the mysteries of the origin of life and the conditions that would support the birth and evolution of life forms. It involves several disciplines of science which are essential for understanding the several biological mechanisms which can culminate in life. This book attempts a broad definition of astrobiology, life and the conditions for the existence of life. The book addresses a whole lot of interesting issues that have puzzled man from time immemorial–Is there life elsewhere in the universe? Can we communicate with extraterrestrial beings? What are the dangers of interstellar flight?