The Origin of Stars, Planets, and Life in the Universe Dr. Matt Bobrowsky

Do you think there is life  even just primitive forms of life  on other worlds? Poll Question:

Do you think there is intelligent life on other worlds? YESNOUNDECIDED

The Electromagnetic Spectrum

Use a stamp “X” to select the most abundant element in the universe. neonnitrogenhydrogenoxygen heliumcarbonsodiumiron

Axis of rotation Approx. 1 light year Axis of rotation Rotation retards collapse in this direction Slowly spinning interstellar cloud Gravity makes cloud shrink. As it shrinks it spins caster and flattens into a disk with central bulge. Approx. 100 AU

Big Questions in Science Where did we come from? Are we alone? Questions about origins: Other astrobiology questions: 1.How did life on Earth form? 2.Should we expect life on many other worlds? 3.Is life on other worlds like life on Earth? 4.How can we detect life elsewhere?

Poll Question: What chemical elements were created by the Big Bang?

The Life Cycle of Stars…

NH 3 H2H2 CH 4 H2OH2O

Put a stamp on the most abundant element in life on Earth. neonnitrogenhydrogenoxygen heliumcarbonsodiumiron

The Most Abundant Chemical Elements  in the Universe and in Life H He O C N In the UniverseIn Life H O C N

Life on Earth is carbon-based. Life on Earth requires liquid water The amino acids in life are easily formed. A few facts about Life on Earth

Finding Life First find planets. One way uses the Doppler Effect.

Another way to find planets is to look for transits.

Kepler Terrestrial Planet Finder

Signs of Life (not yet possible to detect with current technology) Seasonal changes Unusual abundances of gases Gases produced by life Unusual patterns of electromagnetic radiation (e.g., radio or TV broadcasts, the nighttime glow of cities)

Summary We have learned an enormous amount about the origins of stars and planets. We are just starting to learn about life in the universe. These explorations require a team effort involving scientists from many disciplines. There is still much more to explore. Your students will be able to make discoveries and help us learn even more!

NASA’s Navigator Missions: Origins Education Forum:

Poll Question: Do you think there is life  even just primitive forms of life  on other worlds?

Do you think there is intelligent life on other worlds? YESNOUNDECIDED