Astronomy 2021A/B Chapter Notes - Chapter 1: Astrobiology
12 Dec 2014
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Document Summary
In the past mars was thought to have long canals on the surface which were cited as evidence of martian civilization: why has interest in life beyond earth exploded, i) discoveries in planetary and biology have given us reason to think simpler life might exist, ii) we have concrete evidence that our universe is full of stars and planets meaning more to explore, iii) advancements in technology make it possible using established techniques of science. 2 ways ps sets context of search for life: i) by learning how planets form we develop an understanding of how common planets can be, 1995 first strong evidence of extrasolar planets: planets orbiting stars other than sun, ii) helps us understand how planets work, learned why some planets are rocky and others aren"t, helps give idea on what to look for in search of habitable worlds: worlds that contain the basic necessities for life habitable can mean microscopic life.
