Astrobiology Apr 2026

: Studying life in extreme Earth environments, such as hydrothermal vents or permafrost, helps define the physical and chemical limits of life. Search for Life in the Solar System and Beyond

Research in the field is primarily guided by three fundamental questions: how life began and evolved on Earth, whether life exists elsewhere, and what the future holds for life on Earth and beyond. astrobiology

: The current process for setting the next decade's research priorities. : Studying life in extreme Earth environments, such

: Missions like the Mars Science Laboratory (Curiosity) have detected organic molecules in 3.5-billion-year-old rocks, providing clues about the planet's past habitability. : Missions like the Mars Science Laboratory (Curiosity)

: A "follow the water" strategy is often used to identify potentially habitable environments. Researchers look for biosignatures —chemical or physical signs that suggest past or present life—such as specific atmospheric gases like dimethyl sulfide (DMS).

Communicating astrobiology and the search for life elsewhere