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Course fee - INR 25000 per batch Maximum Capacity of a Batch - 20 Students
Learning objectives
Learning objectives
By the end of the 5 hrs class, students will be able to:
Understand what astrobiology is and its interdisciplinary scope combining biology, chemistry, and astronomy.
Describe what conditions are necessary for life and key celestial bodies of interest in astrobiology (Earth, Mars, Europa, exoplanets).
Explain the concept of extremophiles and how life can survive in harsh environments.
Understand the search for life beyond Earth including biosignatures and methods of detection.
Recognize the role of ISRO and space missions in astrobiology research.
Basics of Astrophysics
Basics of Astrophysics
1. Introduction and Scope of Astrobiology
1. Introduction and Scope of Astrobiology
Definition and history of astrobiology.
Why study life in the universe?
Connections with astronomy, biology, geology, and space science.
ISRO’s interest and missions relevant to astrobiology.
2. Conditions for Life
2. Conditions for Life
Basic needs for life: water, energy, elements (CHNOPS).
Habitable zones and planetary environments.
Concept of extremophiles living in Earth's extreme environments as analogs.
3. Life in Our Solar System
3. Life in Our Solar System
Earth as a model for life.
Potential habitats: Mars, Europa, Titan, Enceladus.
Key research findings and missions (e.g., Mars Rover, Chandrayaan).
4. Searching for Life Beyond
4. Searching for Life Beyond
Exoplanets and criteria for habitability.
Biosignatures and techniques (e.g., spectroscopy, remote sensing).
Future missions and telescopes searching for life signs.
5. Astrobiology and ISRO
5. Astrobiology and ISRO
Overview of ISRO projects contributing to astrobiology and space science.
Importance of interdisciplinary research and international collaboration.
Career paths related to astrobiology and space sciences in India.
6. Wrap-up and Discussion
6. Wrap-up and Discussion
Recap of key concepts.
Open Q&A and discussion of students’ ideas about life in the universe.
Suggestions for extended learning and activities (e.g., simulation projects, science fairs).
Teaching Tips
Teaching Tips
Use videos and images of extremophiles and space missions.
Include analogy-based explanations for complex concepts.
Engage students with quizzes or brainstorming sessions about life on other planets.
Provide handouts or flashcards summarizing key terms.
This course provides a foundational understanding of astrobiology linking biological principles to space science, encouraging students to explore the exciting search for life beyond Earth with relevance to ISRO’s mission and research.
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