ASP1022 · Life in the universe: Astrobiology

Overview

This unit focuses on understanding astronomical, geological, chemical, biological and technological conditions necessary for primitive and intelligent life. The topics covered include: stellar and planetary formation, dynamics of planetary orbits, detection and properties of extrasolar planets, habitability, chemical and biological characteristics of life, how life first appeared on the Earth and how life depends on energy from the stars, probabilities of life forming on other planets, artificial life and artificial intelligence, interstellar travel and colonisation, the fate of the Universe and the implications for any life present.

Areas of study: Astrophysics Physics

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. Explain modern theories of stellar and planetary formation and evolution
2. Compare properties of our Solar system to that of extrasolar planetary systems
3. Describe the necessary conditions for life and how species evolve
4. Debate how development of life is dependent on the conditions in the physical universe
5. Theorise on the possibilities of other life forms, interstellar communication and interstellar travel.

Workload

The workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours spread across the semester (roughly 12 hours per week) – approximately an even mixture of online and in person participation in scheduled activities (including seminars and laboratories) and self-scheduled study time (supported by readings, videos and Moodle quizzes).

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.