How are astronomers approaching their search for life in the universe? What have we learned from the surge of exoplanets discoveries? How likely is it that Earth does not host the only life in the Universe? In this course we explore the field of astrobiology, an emerging multidisciplinary field. Progress in astrobiology is driven by telescopes on the ground and in space, and by new insights on how life emerged on Earth and its diversity. The topics in this course range from the science of how exoplanets are detected, to the chemistry that supports the argument that the ingredients for life are common in the Universe.
Offered By
Astrobiology: Exploring Other Worlds
University of ArizonaAbout this Course
Offered by

University of Arizona
The University of Arizona is the state’s land-grant university and a member of the Association of American Universities—made up of just 62 universities in the country. As one of the world’s premier public research universities, the university conducts more than $625 million of research annually. Home to two allopathic medical schools in Tucson and Phoenix, the UA Tech Park, and a member of the Arizona Space Grant Consortium, the university creates an $8.3 billion economic impact for Arizona. U.S. News and World Report placed 14 University of Arizona graduate programs among the top 20 in the nation and it is one of the nation’s top producers of Fulbright Scholars. With its strategic academic and business plan, “Never Settle,” as its guide, the university is producing graduates who are global citizens, engaged leaders, and fulfilled individuals.
Syllabus - What you will learn from this course
Planets in the Solar System and Beyond
Students will learn about planet formation by examining our own solar system and how these basic principles apply to exoplanets (planets around other stars).
Hunting for Exoplanets
Students will learn about how astronomers look for planets around other stars, why it is so difficult to find them, and what we can learn about the properties of planets from each detection method.
Habitability
Students will learn about the features of stars and exoplanets that might promote the development of life outside of Earth.
Life
Students will learn about the biological history of Earth, how life can develop and thrive in extreme conditions, and where else in the universe life might exist.
Reviews
- 5 stars92.22%
- 4 stars5.63%
- 3 stars0.53%
- 1 star1.60%
TOP REVIEWS FROM ASTROBIOLOGY: EXPLORING OTHER WORLDS
I have absolutely enjoyed this course throughout. It's given me a lot of knowledge and hats off the Prof. Chris Impey for teaching in such an interesting way.
I loved this course, especially the peer-reviewed assignments, it was really exciting to write those assignments and review others, which gave me understanding of how other people thinks
Excellent course by Prof.Chris Impey. If you want a deeper overall understanding of Astronomy, I would recommend the other course by the same professor.
After completing 'Astronomy: exploring time and universe' I followed up with this course. This course as good as the previous one!
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