Energy, chemistry, solvents, and habitats - the basic elements of living systems - define the opportunities and limitations for life on other worlds. This class-tested text examines each of these parameters in crucial depth and makesthe argument that life forms we would recognize may be more common in our solar system than many assume. It also considers, however, exotic forms of life that would not have to rely on carbon as basic chemical element, solar energy as a main energy source, or water as primary solvent. Finally the question of detecting bio- and geosignature of such life forms is discussed, ranging from Earth environments to deep space. While speculative considerations in this emerging field of science cannot be avoided, the authors have tried to present their study with the breadth and seriousness that a scientific approach to this issue requires. The highly praised primer of Astrobiology and the scientific quest for Life in the Universe, now as revised and significantly expanded secondedition INDICE: Introduction.- Definition of Life.- The Origin of Life.- Lessons from the History of Life on Earth.- Energy Sources and Life.- Building Blocks of Life.- Life and the Need for a Solvent.- Habitats of Life.- Ideas of Exotic Forms of Life.- The Future and Fate of Living Systems.- Signatures of Life.- Life Detection - Past and Present.- Opitimizing Space Exploration.- References.- Index.
- ISBN: 978-3-540-76816-6
- Editorial: Springer
- Encuadernacion: Cartoné
- Páginas: 240
- Fecha Publicación: 01/09/2008
- Nº Volúmenes: 1
- Idioma: Inglés