There may be other ways to build DNA and RNA
One of the most fundamental building blocks of life on earth is DNA. This molecule consists of four base pairs and a negatively charged…
Category: Astrobiology & Space Science
Growing plants on the surface of the Moon and Mars
The reality of being able to live and settle on Martian or lunar bases can seem like it is getting close. To do this, we need to be able to…
How stars can limit life in the universe
For the past few decades, scientists have been looking at planets outside of our solar system to see if they could host life. Now,…
Learning about space motivates students to pursue science
Whether it is the acceptance of different passions, backgrounds, or even favorite movies, diversity matters. A group of ten researchers who…
Could “Fools’ Gold” have helped build the first proteins?
How and why humans exist are questions that have challenged different cultures ever since the dawn of civilization. Many scientists have…
If there was oxygen on a far away planet, how would we know?
Scientists use computer models to simulate what oxygen would look like on far away planets and found a chemical signature that helps us tell…
Do humans need to be altruistic to make it to Mars?
Altruism, in principle, is selfless action for the well-being of others. Altruism may help us achieve our space exploration goals. Space…
Early Martian life may have used sulfur as an energy source
Using an environment on Earth that simulates early Mars conditions, researchers found an abundance of bacteria that get their energy from…
How biology writes its signature
In recent decades the search for extraterrestrial life has seen major advancements in technology and methodology. The search for…
How would we establish a society on Mars?
Humans are not built for Mars. Or rather, Mars isn't built for us, yet. Understanding the sacrifices such a massive undertaking needs is…