
Astrobiology is the study of the origin and development of life on this and other planets. What fascinates people about astrobiology is that it seeks answers to long-standing unsolved questions: how quickly did life evolve on Earth and why did life persist here? Is there life elsewhere in the solar system or beyond? The research of astrobiology has become more crucial than ever in recent decades, as biologists have discovered microbes that live in ever more extreme settings, such as bubbling hot springs, in acid, or deep within rocks. Rooted in strong and rigorous research, astrobiology incorporates the work of microbiologists, geologists, and astronomers. In this Very Short Introduction, David C. Catling introduces the origins of astrobiology and demonstrates its impact on current astronomical research and potential future discoveries. About the series: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.
This book investigates the fundamental scientific questions regarding the origin, evolution, and potential distribution of life within the universe. David C. Catling, a professor of Earth and space sciences, synthesizes current research from microbiology, geology, and astronomy to establish a framework for understanding life's resilience. He examines how life persists in extreme terrestrial environments to inform the search for biological signatures on other planets and moons.
What You Will Find
Scope Limits
Experts and readers recognize this text as a concise, high-level overview suitable for students and interested laypeople. The prose is noted for its clarity and ability to distill complex interdisciplinary research into an accessible format.
Page Count:
144
Publication Date:
2013-01-01
Publisher:
Oup Oxford
ISBN-10:
019166524X
ISBN-13:
9780191665240
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