More Than Sci-Fi:
Astrobiology’s Search for Alien Life FIONA MURPHY `23
Figure 1 A representation of planets and stars beyond Earth — the subjects of astrobiology’s search for extraterrestrial life.
Since humanity acquired the knowledge of an expansive universe beyond Earth, many have wondered about the possibility of life existing on other planets. The idea of alien existence captivates humans, excites our creative faculties, and even provokes our deepest fears. Humankind’s widespread fascination with extraterrestrial life is clearly exemplified in popular culture. One only has to look to iconic movies like E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, beloved literature like The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, or even the growth of conspiracy theories around topics like Area 51 to understand the enamor and curiosity of humans with foreign life. For many, extraterrestrial life is an interesting possibility to consider, but a seemingly impossible reality to prove. Combining the limitless quality of the universe with humankind’s limited technological capabilities makes
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discovering unfamiliar life forms an extremely difficult task. However, there are scientists across diverse disciplines who study the potential for life outside of Earth and the methods by which this life can be confirmed. Through the possible discovery of extraterrestrial life and the conditions it requires, humanity can hopefully learn more about the origins of our own unique existence in addition to discovering future planets that may be hospitable for human life. Habitable Zone Because Earth has optimal conditions for supporting life, researchers reduced Earth’s qualities to basic criteria that other planets must meet in order to potentially host alien life. One foundational requirement a planet
