This course is designed to provide a broad introduction to the exciting new field of astrobiology -- the study of the astronomical and planetary context within which life on Earth has evolved, and the implications for the prevalence of life elsewhere in the Universe. There are no formal prerequisites, although it is envisaged that students will have taken the first year Geology of the Solar System course.

The course is scheduled for Thursday evenings of the second term (i.e. from January 2005). Final assessment for the course is based on a written examination (75%), and course work (25%).

The main aims of the course are to :

(1) Introduce students to the astronomical background of the origin of life, including the origin of the necessary chemical elements and the origin and evolution of the Solar System;

(2) Introduce the concept of pre-biological chemical evolution, and familiarize students with the key theories and experimental results in this area;

(3) Provide students with an overview of the history of life on Earth, and its relevance for life elsewhere, with special reference to extremophilic life;

(4) Outline the prospects for life elsewhere in the Universe, both in our own Solar System and on the newly discovered planets around other stars;