Astronomy 2021A/B Lecture Notes - Lecture 1: Planetary Science, Radiography, Chemical Element

• School: Western University
• Department: Astronomy
• Course: Astronomy 2021A/B
• Professor: Alyssa Gilbert

Document Summary

January 4th, 2016 - introduction to the course and to astrobiology. 1. 1 the possibility of life beyond earth. Scientists are interested in aliens too, though most scientists remain deeply sceptical about reports of aliens on earth. New discoveries in planetary science and biology has given us some reason to think that simpler life (microbes) might exist on other planets or moons that orbit our sun. Our universe is full of stars and planets, so more places to search. Advances in scientific understanding and technology make it possible to study the question of life. 1. 2 the scientific context of the search. Three disciplines that are important in framing the context of scientific search for life. Astronomy, planetary science (geology and atmospheric science), biology. How does planetary science help us understand the possibilities for extraterrestrial life: study of planets, moons orbiting planets, planet formation, other objects in space, develop an understanding of how common planets might bee.