The Emergence of a New Field in Science - Exobiology

Exobiology, also known as Astrobiology, refers to the study of the conditions necessary to support the independent development of extraterrestrial life. Direct proof has not yet been found of life anywhere in the universe other than on the Earth, but scientifically sound arguments have been proposed in support of such a possibility. The findings of modern astronomy suggest that a large number of stars could have planets orbiting them that provide conditions suitable for life, and laboratory experiments have demonstrated that many molecules necessary for life can be formed under conditions that may have been present on the Earth billions of years ago.…