What is astrobiology?
Astrobiology is the study of life within the universe. Astrobiologists study how life forms and develops, and where life can be found. Astrobiology involves the search for life outside Earth, the study of planets and moons within our solar system, and the search for habitable planets around other stars. Astrobiologists also study life here on Earth (especially extreme life) to help them learn about the environments in which life can survive. Furthermore, astrobiology is the study of the living universe, providing a scientific foundation for the multidisciplinary investigation of the origin and distribution of life, including the role of physical forces, planetary atmospheres, and ecosystem interactions in the evolution of living systems. By comparing the characteristics and necessities for life here on earth with other planets, we can determine which planets have the best chance to produce life.