An Astrobiology Strategy for the Search for Life in the Universe

Astrobiology is the study of the origin, evolution, distribution, and future of life in the universe. It is an inherently interdisciplinary field that encompasses astronomy, biology, geology, heliophysics, and planetary science, including complementary laboratory activities and field studies conducted in a wide range of terrestrial environments. Combining inherent scientific interest and public appeal, the search for life in the solar system and beyond provides a scientific rationale for many current and future activities carried out by the National Aeronautics and Science Administration (NASA) and other national and international agencies and organizations. Requested by NASA, this study offers a science strategy for astrobiology that outlines key scientific questions, identifies the most promising research in the field, and indicates the extent to which the mission priorities in existing decadal surveys address the search for life's origin, evolution, distribution, and future in the universe. This report makes recommendations for advancing the research, obtaining the measurements, and realizing NASA's goal to search for signs of life in the universe. Table of ContentsFront MatterSummary1 The Search for Life in the Universe: Past, Present, and Future2 Dynamic Habitability3 Comparative Planetology and Multiparameter Habitability Assessment4 Biosignature Identification and Interpretation5 Evolution in the Technology and Programmatic Landscape6 The Search for Life in the Coming Decades7 Leveraging PartnershipsAppendixesAppendix A: Congressional Mandate and Letter of RequestAppendix B: Statement of TaskAppendix C: List of White PapersAppendix D: Biographies of Committee MembersAppendix E: Glossary and Acronyms