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Astronomy: Life in the Universe

Astronomy: Life in the Universe. 15 PHYS 122 Prof. Michael Sitko. Why do we search? We are curious about the possibility of life elsewhere in the universe We can test our ideas of life's origin on Earth We might better understand our place in the universe.

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Astronomy: Life in the Universe

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  1. Astronomy: Life in the Universe 15 PHYS 122 Prof. Michael Sitko

  2. Why do we search? • We are curious about the possibility of life elsewhere in the universe • We can test our ideas of life's origin on Earth • We might better understand our place in the universe

  3. Why cover this material in an astronomy class? • By the subject’s very nature, astronomers study possible environments suitable for life • Due to the technology used, searches for signals are a natural byproduct of radio astronomy

  4. Setting the Stage: Early speculations to the present day (i.e. the Fermi-Hart Paradox) - Philosophy Enrico Fermi

  5. Some Background Physics: The Physics of Light

  6. Things Astronomical: • Evolution of the Universe • Galaxy and Star formation • Star Lives & Origin of the Elements

  7. Things Biochemical: • The Chemical Basis of Life - DNA, RNA, Amino Acids, Proteins • Organized Life - Metabolism, Reproduction, Mutation, Evolution • Unity & History of Life on Earth

  8. Life in the Solar System: • Formation & Evolution of the Solar System • Venus, Mars, Europa, Titan • Looking for Life young solar system Titan

  9. Life Outside the Solar System: • The Drake Equation • Habitable Zones around Stars • Extrasolar Planetary Systems

  10. Interstellar Space Travel: • Fiction Versus Fact • Dangers of Spaceflight • Is it Possible?

  11. SETI: Search for Extra- Terrestrial Intelligence

  12. The “Fringe” UFOs Ancient Astronauts Crop Circles Alien Abductions

  13. The Fermi-Hart Paradox: Where Is Everyone?

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