Books in the Cambridge Astrobiology series

This 2006 volume addresses fundamental questions concerning the formation of planetary systems in general, and of our solar system in particular. Drawing from advances in observational, experimental and theoretical research, it summarises our understanding of the planet formation processes, and addresses major open questions and research issues.

Astrobiology is an expanding, interdisciplinary field investigating the origin, evolution and future of life in the universe. Tackling many of the foundational debates of the subject, from discussions of cosmological evolution to detailed reviews of common concepts such as the 'Rare Earth' hypothesis, this volume is the first systematic survey of the philosophical aspects and conundrums in the study of cosmic life. The author's exploration of the increasing number of cross-over problems highlights the relationship between astrobiology and cosmology and presents some of the challenges of multidisciplinary study. Modern physical theories dealing with the multiverse add a further dimension to the debate. With a selection of beautifully presented illustrations and a strong emphasis on constructing a unified methodology across disciplines, this book will appeal to graduate students and specialists who seek to rectify the fragmented nature of current astrobiological endeavour, as well as curious astrophysicists, biologists and SETI enthusiasts.

Explores the nature, origin, and extent of life in the universe from both scientific and philosophical perspectives, focusing particularly on the challenge of formulating a universal theory of life in relation to the search for extraterrestrial life. It is a valuable resource for those studying astrobiology and the origins of life.

Focusing on the major breakthroughs in astrobiology, this fascinating book explores some of the most exciting and important problems in this field. It is an enjoyable, interdisciplinary overview of this subject for students and researchers in astrophysics, planetary science, geosciences, biochemistry, and evolutionary biology.

This highly interdisciplinary 2007 book looks at the delicate balance between chemistry and the ambient conditions in the universe that permit complex chemical networks and structures to exist. It will appeal to a broad range of academics interested in the origin and existence of life in our universe.

Exploring the astronomical, biological, and cultural factors that determine whether extraterrestrial life is abundant or rare, leading scientists and historians use the Drake Equation as a springboard to identify essential topics and guide their assumptions. An accessible overview of the field of astrobiology for both established and incoming researchers.

Understanding if and how life might exist on other planets under extreme environmental conditions is best understood by seeing how life survives these conditions on Earth. Using the dry valleys of the Antarctic along with other examples, the detailed terrestrial research is brought together here, presented from an astrobiological perspective.

Where did we come from? Are we alone? Where are we going? These are the questions that define the field of astrobiology. Philosophers, historians, ethicists, and theologians provide the perspectives of their fields on the research and discoveries of astrobiology in this valuable resource for graduate students and researchers.

This highly interdisciplinary 2007 book looks at the delicate balance between chemistry and the ambient conditions in the universe that permit complex chemical networks and structures to exist. It will appeal to a broad range of academics interested in the origin and existence of life in our universe.

Focusing on the major breakthroughs in astrobiology, this fascinating book explores some of the most exciting and important problems in this field. It is an enjoyable, interdisciplinary overview of this subject for students and researchers in astrophysics, planetary science, geosciences, biochemistry, and evolutionary biology.