Astrobiological research methods

Astrobiological research methods

Prof. Dr. A. Airo – Freie Universität Berlin

Thursday, October 1 and Friday, October 2, 2015
FU Berlin, Department of Geological Sciences

Astrobiology is the study of the origin, evolution, distribution, and future of life in the universe: extraterrestrial life and life on Earth [Wikipedia 2015].

The scope of this definition is so general and broad, implicitly encompassing almost all fields of natural sciences, that it frequently remains unclear what astrobiologists actually study; particularly in the light of not having discovered alien life.

Hence, the goal of this work shop is to review and discuss the approaches and methods currently applied in this multidisciplinary research area.
In particular, we will focus on the latest geological, biological, and chemical studies conducted in this field.

The content of the lectures will be illustrated by exercises and discussions on how to design future experiments and space missions.

Day 1 – Morning Session
Overview and history of astrobiology
Abiogenesis: Miller-type experiments, hydrothermal vent environments, protocell reconstruction

Day 1 – Afternoon Session
The geologic record of early earth environments and life
Biosignatures: Isotopes, molecules, microfossils, microbialites, global geochemistry

Day 2 – Morning Session
Habitable environments on Mars (past and present)
Mars-analog environments and ecosystems on Earth

Day 2 – Afternoon Session
Exoplanets: Habitability and biosignatures
The future of astrobiological research