This four week course dives into the foundations of astrobiology. We will explore the origins of life on Earth and the possible evolution of life beyond our own planet. 

We will learn about the requirements for life as we know it on Earth, possible extraterrestrial environments in our own solar system that may support life, and how we search for life in other star systems. 

During the course, each student will create their own fictional lifeform based on what they learn. Students will choose an environment discussed in the class, such as the icy moon of a gas giant, exoplanet in the habitable zone of its star, or even an extreme terrestrial environment like hydrothermal vents. They will describe how it meets the requirements for life in its environment and how it has adapted over time. In our final meeting students will get to present their lifeforms to the rest of the class. 

This is a highly interactive course. Students will learn through an image and video filled presentation and discussion. Students’ participation and questions are regularly encouraged. 

This course is perfect for the young space enthusiast who wants to deepen and expand their knowledge of Space and biology. However, no previous knowledge in the subject is required. 

Classes are designed to encourage student engagement and follow their curiosity.


Class One: Life on Earth 
- What is life 
- Requirements of life
- How did life evolve 	   

Class Two: Life in our solar system
- Mars
- Icy moons
- Titan

Class Three: Life beyond our solar system 
- Exoplanets 
- Detection
- Observable Properties
- SETI

Class Four: Student Presentations and review


There is no prerequisite for this class. Just a love of learning and curiosity about astronomy and outer space. While we will discuss some of the mathematics used in astrobiology, learners will not need to use math in this course, unless they would like to for “extra credit”.