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Life in the Universe
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:41:25
Abstract
This course examines the astrophysical background to the study of Life in the Universe. What is Life, and what are the most basic requirements for Life to exist in the Universe? What environments are conducive to Life, and how do these come about? Can we imagine Universes without Life.
Objective
This course is aimed at physics and other science students who would like to understand the astrophysics background to the multi-disciplinary question of Life in the Universe. Most of the class time is traditional lectures. Students prepare a short (20 minute) presentation on a topic, which can be then of their own suggestion. The course will be in English.
Content
What is Life; requirements for Life; formation of planetary systems like the Solar System; potential habitats for Life elsewhere in the Solar System; impacts and mass extinctions on Earth; searches for other planetary systems; exosolar planetary systems; is Life common in the Universe; searches for extraterrestrial Life and intelligent Life; The evolution of stars and the origin of the chemical elements; The interesting case of carbon; cosmology and the formation of structure in the Universe; anthropic principles; is Life inevitable.
Resources
Lecture Notes
Presentation Powerpoint
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- session examination
- Mode
- oral 20 minutes
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture | Life in the Universe |
|
2 h weekly |
| seminar |
Life in the Universe
Seminar presentations by the students will take place in special sessions at the end of the semester.
|
|
1 h weekly |