Exobiology in the Solar System and the Search for Life on Mars

Abstract: This 180-page report of the European Space Agency offers an exobiological view of the solar system and describes the search for life on Mars. Exobiology sections include: chemical evolution in the solar system, limits of life under extreme conditions, morphological and biochemical signatures of extraterrestrial life (with usage of terrestrial analogues), potential non-Martian sites for extraterrestrial life, science and experiment strategy, and a summary of science team recommendations. Addressing the search for life on Mars, the team includes the following sections: the planet Mars, Martian meteorites, exobiology and the Mars surface environment, the search for chemical indicators of life, the inspection of subsurface aliquots and surface rocks, and final conclusions.

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