Introduction to astrobiology

Abstract

Astrobiology is the science that seeks to unravel the mysteries of the orign 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 bioloical mechanisms which can culminate in life. This book attempts a broad definition of astrobiology, life and the conditions for the existence of life. The theories of the origin of life from the times of Aristotle to the modern era are briefly discussed. The book addresses a whole lot of interesting issues that have puzzled man from time immemorial is there life elsewhere in the universe. About Author : C Sivaram received his Ph.D. from the Indian Institute of science, Bangalore. Since 1980, he has been wieth the Indian Institute of Astrophysics, Bangalore. Ajay Sastry obtained his M.Sc. in Zoology from Bangalore University, Bangalore. He later joined as a Research Associate in the University of Agricultural Science, Bangalore. Contents : Preface Introduction What is Lfie Life on Other Planets of our Solar System General Conditions for the Existence of Life Origin of Life Anthropic Principle Communication with Extra terrestrial Civilization Trips to Alpha Centauri Information Biomoleculaes Bio geo Chemical Cycles Future space missions of astrobiological interest Emergence of life Research outposts on mars Appendix Index