Astrobiology deals with finding a habitable environment, be it on the planets of our solar system or on the other planets from other solar systems. Doesn't the search for life on other planets or satellites require our understanding of life, the nature of the ideal environment of the planet or satellite, and the understanding of the planetary interactions of the solar systems? As astrobiology aims at studying the origin, evolution, distribution, and future of life, it has to be an interdisciplinary field that combines the study of biology, chemistry, geology, atmospheric science, and astronomy.
Human beings have been wondering about the existence of life beyond the Earth since time immemorial. But, our forefathers were not assisted with the required technology to study this matter. As the scientists of the 20th century have taken their inventions to a noticeable height, they have been able to detect "remains of bacterial life in Martian meteorites and the first planets orbiting other stars" (“What Is Astrobiology?”).
After successfully studying the origin, evolution, and distribution of life on Earth, the scientists of the 21st century are now desperate to find out whether there is an intellectual creature on other planets.
Modern scientists have found noticeable evidence that tells that the surface of Mars once had liquid water, and it is thought that Mars' surface can still be habitable (“Habitability & Life in the Solar System”).
"Astrobiological research on March, led by UWAB faculty and students, focuses on understanding the Martian environment and climate, including the nature and distribution of past habitable environment on Mars" (ibid).
The aim of the study of astrobiology is thought to be ensuring life beyond the Earth. If scientists do not find a habitable environment on Mars, they will surely focus on creating a habitable environment and climate so that life can exist there, because our future lies in this process. Here lies the importance of the study of astrobiology.
Agencies such as the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), European Space Agency, Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), etc. are regularly sending probes to celestial objects for better study.
Moreover, astronauts and cosmonauts are also going to space now and then. Furthermore, they are planning to reach mars by 2025 and make a basement over there so that human beings can dwell there. This simple basement will surely result in hotels, motels, and homes to live permanently. If this dream comes true, Human beings will go a long way to ensure conditions on Mars for sustaining life. If this mission becomes successful, they will look for other planets and satellites.
Though the field of astrobiology is a new one, it is thought that the field has a promising future. That is why the field is growing rapidly around the world. Billions of dollars are being spent on different projects in the field thinking that it will return thousands of times more than what we can imagine now. If human beings can colonize other planets and satellites and if they become successful in instilling life there, almost all of our crises, be they material or psychological, will surely be removed. We can enjoy unlimited resources from other planets and satellites; we can stop the extinction of human life as our beloved earth will not last long.
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Work Cited
“Habitability & Life in the Solar System.” University of Washington, depts.washington.edu/astrobio/wordpress/research-areas/habitability-life-in-the-solar-system/. Accessed 14 Oct. 2022.
“What Is Astrobiology?” University of Washington, depts.washington.edu/astrobio/wordpress/about-us/what-is-astrobiology/#:~:text=Astrobiology%20is%20the%20study%20of,and%20stellar%20interactions%20and%20processes.. Accessed 14 Oct. 2022.