PHY 1107 - Astrobiology: The Origin of Life on Earth and the Potential for Life in the Universe

Credits: 4
This introductory Astrobiology course introduces students to the wonders of the universe and to the existence of life itself. The basic principles of astronomy, biology, chemistry, and physics are related to the formation of life on Earth and to the potential for life elsewhere in the universe. Concepts covered in this course include the formation and fate of the universe, essential features of all living systems, the nature of life on Earth, the geological history of the Earth, and the process of evolution. The search for extraterrestrial life, extraterrestrial intelligence, habitable worlds, and the cosmic cataclysms that threaten our continuing existence will also be discussed. Current NASA missions that are devoted to this pursuit will be highlighted. The lecture material will be augmented by in-class videos and “mini-labs.”
McDaniel Plan: Scientific Inquiry Embedded Lab