This module invites students to engage with the concept of time travel through the lens of evolutionary history. It examines how altering historical events could reshape the future, encouraging discussions on:
Students will reflect on significant evolutionary events and their implications for understanding life today, pondering whether the present is an inevitable result of history.
This module delves into the origins of the universe, beginning with the Big Bang. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the cosmos to grasp the evolutionary history of life on Earth. The concepts of cosmology, including time and scale, will be explored to help students comprehend the vastness of the universe.
Key points include:
This module discusses how the physical universe, born from the Big Bang, set the stage for the emergence of life. It covers the formation of chemical building blocks essential for life, including:
Students will explore whether life's essential compounds originated on Earth or were delivered by cosmic processes, highlighting recent discoveries in astrochemistry that suggest these compounds may represent a universal language.
This lecture focuses on the concept of "Pushing the Envelope for Life," examining the limits and potential for life in extreme environments. It encourages students to think critically about the adaptability of life forms and the conditions necessary for their survival. Discussions will include:
Through engaging examples, students will understand how life can thrive in conditions previously thought inhospitable.
This module invites students to engage with the concept of time travel through the lens of evolutionary history. It examines how altering historical events could reshape the future, encouraging discussions on:
Students will reflect on significant evolutionary events and their implications for understanding life today, pondering whether the present is an inevitable result of history.
This lecture covers the role of suborbital flight and small satellites in space exploration. It highlights the significance of these technologies in advancing our understanding of astrobiology. Topics discussed will include:
Students will gain insight into how these innovations contribute to our exploration of life in the universe.
This module discusses the survival and adaptation of organisms beyond their planet of origin. Led by Rocco L. Mancinelli, discussions will focus on how life might evolve in extraterrestrial environments. Key points include:
Students will explore the possibilities for life existing on other planets and the implications for our understanding of biology.
This module focuses on the study of Martian meteorites, particularly ALH 84001, presented by Dr. David McKay. The lecture will cover:
Students will learn about the connections between meteorite studies and the search for extraterrestrial life.
This lecture discusses controlled environmental life support systems essential for sustaining life during long-duration space missions. Topics include:
Students will understand how these systems are vital for the survival of astronauts and the potential for human colonization of other planets.
This module examines the discovery of small RNAs, specifically microRNA, and their implications in genetics and bioinformatics. Led by Eric J. Devor, discussions will cover:
Students will learn how these discoveries contribute to our understanding of genetics and the complexity of life.
This lecture, presented by guest lecturer Rusty Schweickart, focuses on the connections between life on Earth and life in space. Key discussions will include:
Students will explore how studying life in space informs our knowledge of biological processes on Earth.
This lecture addresses the challenges posed by asteroids and the preparedness required to tackle potential threats. Guest lecturer Rusty Schweickart will discuss:
Students will gain insight into the scientific and strategic considerations necessary for planetary defense.
This module explores the discovery of planetary systems around other stars, presented by guest lecturer Dr. Geoff Marcy. Key topics include:
Students will learn about the diversity of planetary systems and their potential for harboring life.