The Living Cosmos draws readers into the scientific search for life in the universe.
After centuries of speculation, we are on the verge of learning if biology is unique
to the Earth. The Living Cosmos is a snapshot of the interdisciplinary field called
astrobiology, weaving in stories of discovery by leading researchers. Life on Earth
is amazingly robust and diverse, with implications for the range of sites where
life may be found. In our solar system, Mars is joined by Titan, Europa, and several
other moons as places that might host microbes. With over 200 extra-solar planets
now known, there may be 100 million habitable places in the Milky Way alone. Some
astronomers are approaching the goal of finding clones of the Earth. Others are
vaulting over uncertainties in how often microbial life advances to become intelligent;
they’re looking and listening for signals from remote civilizations. The Living
Cosmos presents recent information on the origin and evolution of life on Earth.
The vastness of space and the eons since the big bang present a great potential
for biology both familiar and unfamiliar. The discoveries of astrobiology may soon
redefine our place in the universe.
