Life in the Universe 2e

This pioneering textbook offers an exciting and rigorous introduction to a wide range of sciences, including astronomy, biology, chemistry, geology, and cosmology. It has been developed specifically for emerging courses in astrobiology, though it can also be used for introductory astronomy courses with an emphasis on life. Life in the Universe captures the imagination of students by exploring fundamental pan-scientific questions, such as- how did life begin on Earth, what are the most extreme forms of life currently known, how likely is life in our solar system and beyond, and what are the challenges of trying to colonize another planet? The text motivates non-science majors to develop an understanding of the nature and process of science through skillful writing and a wealth of pedagogical features. An award-winning author and contributor team spanning the sciences ensures that coverage is complete, authoritative, and accessible.