Detecting the Fingerprints of Life: Current Status and Recent Advances
- Paper number
IAC-06-D3.P.04
- Author
Dr. Scott Hubbard, SETI Institute, United States
- Coauthor
Ms. Lisa Chu-Thielbar, SETI Institute, United States
- Coauthor
Dr. Gregory T. Kovacs, Stanford University, United States
- Year
2006
- Abstract
Astrobiology asks the following question: “Are the living organisms that inhabit planet earth the only life that exists or has ever existed in the universe; in other words, are we alone?” We will examine this question by addressing where and how to look for the fingerprints of life. A recurring theme in mission and instrument design is to determine the location of the scientific “hotspot” which offers the best possibility of past or current living systems on other worlds. This exploration challenge falls into at least two categories: “pale blue dot” detection which requires understanding how a biosphere might be remotely detected through a telescope, and in situ life detection on reachable solar system bodies such as on or below the surface of Mars, in the putative oceans of Europa or even prebiotic compounds on comets, the surface of Titan and others. We will survey current thoughts on mission design and instrument development with particular attention to current in situ approaches derived from sensors used in detection of infectious agents and the world of biotechnology. We will also propose areas and directions of future research and development that appear promising.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
IAC-06-D3.P.04.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).
To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.