Encyclopedia of Astrobiology [3 ed.] 9783662650929, 9783662650936

Table of contents :
Foreword to the Third Edition
Preface
Acknowledgments
About the Editors-in-Chief
Field Editors
Section Editors
Contributors
Astrobiology by Discipline
Field - Astrophysics & Astrochemistry: M. Gerin, D. Rouan
Section - Stars and Nucleosynthesis: J. Isern
Section - Stars - Formation: M. Beltran
Section - Astrophysics: General Definitions: D. Rouan
Section - Astrochemistry: Models and Observations: V. Wakelam
Section - Astrochemistry: Laboratory Experiments: F. Dulieu, A Canosa
Field - Planetology; T. Spohn
Section - Planetary Formation and Dynamics: Y. Alibert, R. Helled
Section - Inner Solar System: G. Alemanno
Section - Outer Solar System: T. Cavalie
Section - Small Bodies and Dwarf Planets: H. Cottin
Section - Exoplanetary Systems: E. Bolmont
Section - Planetary and Exoplanetary Atmospheres: S. Lebonnois
Section - Planetary Surfaces: J. Helbert
Section - Planetary Interiors: A-C. Plesa
Field - Space Sciences: M. Viso
Section - Space Missions: O. Witasse
Section - Planetary Protection: A. Spry
Section - Ground Facilities: J-P de Vera, M. Baqué
Field - Earth Sciences: P. Claeys
Section - Geology: General Definitions: D. Pinti
Section - Early Earth Geochemistry: H. Rizo-Garza
Section - Traces of Life: N. McLoughlin
Section - Hadean-Archean Geology: H. Martin, P. Claeys, F. Albarede
Section - Geomicrobiology: K. Konhauser
Field - Chemistry: J. Cleaves
Section - Chemistry: General Definitions: K. Kobayashi
Section - Prebiotic Chemistry: R. Saladino
Section - Origins of Life: R. Saladino, J. Pereto
Section - Artificial Life: K. Adamala
Field - Life Sciences: R. Amils
Section - Extremophiles: R. Amils
Section - General Biology: F. Gomez
Section - Genetics and Evolution: C. Briones
Section - Biochemistry: J Pereto
Section - Earth Analogues Field Sites: F. Gomez
Section - Microbiology in Space: K. Beblo-Varnesevic
Field - History and Philosophy of Astrobiology: S. Tirard
Section - History: From Antiquity to 1800: D. Duner
Section - History: From 1800 to Present: S. Tirard
Section - Philosophy of Science: E. Persson
Section - Astrobiology and Society: K Capova
Field - Institutions and Organizations: W. Irvine
Section - Institutions and Organizations: W. Irvine
Field - Data Tables: M. Gargaud
A
51 Pegasi B
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References
55 Cancri
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
67P
AAN
Ab Initio = First-Principles
AbGradE
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Abiogenesis
Definition
Cross-References
Abiogenic Photosynthesis
Abiotic
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Abiotic Phosphorylation
Abiotic Photosynthesis
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Abiotic Recombination
Synonyms
Definition
History (Optional)
Overview
Cross-References
References
Ablation
Definition
Absolute Age Dating
Absolute and Relative Ages
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Absorption Cross Section
Definition
Absorption Spectroscopy
Definition
History
Cross-References
Abundances
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Abundances of Elements
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
1989 AC
Acasta Gneiss
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Accretion
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Accretion Shock
Definition
Cross-References
Accretion, Stellar
Definition
Cross-References
Acetaldehyde
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Acetamide
Synonyms
Chemical Formula
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
2-(Methylamino) Acetic Acid
Acetic Acid
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Acetic Acid Amide
Acetic Aldehyde
Acetone (CH3COCH3)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Acetonitrile
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Acetylene (C2H2)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Achiral
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Achondrite
Definition
Cross-References
Acid Hydrolysis
Definition
Acid Maceration
Definition
Cross-References
Acidophile
Definition
Overview
Applications
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Acritarch
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Acrylonitrile
Activated Nucleotide
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Activation Energy
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Active Asteroid
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Readings
Active Site
Definition
Cross-References
Activity
Definition
Cross-References
Activity, Magnetic
Definition
History
Overview
Solar Activity
Stellar Magnetic Activity
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Adakite
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Adaptation
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Adaptive Optics
Definition
Cross-References
Adenine
Definition
Cross-References
Adenosine 5′-Triphosphatase
Adenosine Triphosphatase
Adenosine Triphosphate
Adiabatic Processes
Definition
Cross-References
References
Adsorption
Definition
Cross-References
AEB, Brazil
Synonyms
Definition
Aerobe
Definition
Cross-References
Aerobic Mesophilic Bacterial Spore
Definition
Cross-References
Aerobic Respiration
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Aerobiology
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Aerogel
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Aeronautics and Space Agency of FFG
Aerosols
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Affinity Chromatography
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Affinity Constant
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
AFGL 915, IRAS 06176-1036
AGB
Age Measurement
Agência Espacial Brasileira
Agentur für Luft-und Raumfahrt der FFG
Agenzia Spaziale Italiana
AIB
Akilia
Definition
Cross-References
Al-Andalus, Cosmological Ideas
Overview
References and Further Reading
al-Bīrunī, Abu Rayān
Overview
References and Further Reading
al-Tusī, Nasir al-Dīn
Overview
References and Further Reading
Alanine
Definition
Cross-References
Albedo
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Albedo Feature
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Alcohol
Definition
Cross-References
Aldehyde
Definition
History
Cross-References
Aldose
Definition
Cross-References
Algae
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Internet Resources
Algin
Alginate
Synonyms
Chemical Formula
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Alginic Acid
ALH 84001
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Alignment of Dust Grains
Definition
Cross-References
Aliphatic Carboxylic Acids
Aliphatic Hydrocarbon
Definition
Cross-References
Alkaline Lake
Alkaliphile
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Alkanoic Acids
Allan Hills 84001
ALMA
Acronyms
Definition
History
Overview
References and Further Reading
Alpha Centauri Bb
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Alpha Helix
Definition
History
Cross-References
Alpha Particles
Alpha Rays
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Alteration
Definition
Cross-References
Alteration Profile
Aluminilite (older name)
Alunite
Synonyms
Chemical Formula (Optional)
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Amazonian
Definition
Cross-References
Ambipolar Diffusion
Definition
Cross-References
Amide
Definition
Cross-References
Amidocyanogen
Amidogen
Amine
Definition
Cross-References
Amino Acid
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Amino Acid N-Carboxy Anhydride
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Amino Acid Precursors
Definition
Cross-References
Amino Alkanoic Acid
Amino Radical
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Aminoacetic Acid
Aminoacetonitrile (NH2CH2CN)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Aminobutyric Acid
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Aminocyanocarbene
Aminoethanoic Acid
Aminoisobutyric Acid
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Aminomaleonitrile
Synonyms
Chemical Formula
Acronyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Aminomethane
Aminonitrile
Definition
Cross-References
2-Aminopropanedinitrile
Aminyl Radical
Amitsoq Gneisses
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Ammonia
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Ammonium (NH3D+)
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Amoebae
Definition
Cross-References
Amorphous Carbon
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Amorphous Solid
Definition
Cross-References
Amphibolite Facies
Definition
Cross-References
Amphiphile
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Amphiphilicity
Definition
Cross-References
Ampholytes
Amphoteric Compounds
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Amplification (Genetics)
Definition
Cross-References
Anabolism
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Anaerobe
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Anaerobic Photosynthesis
Chemical Formula
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Anaerobic Respiration
Definition
Cross-References
Analog Sites
Anatexis
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Anaximander
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Ancient Lakes
Angular Diameter
Definition
References and Further Reading
Angular Momentum
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
Animalcules
Definition
Cross-References
Anion
Definition
Cross-References
Annefrank
Definition
Anorthosite
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Anoxic
Definition
Cross-References
Anoxic Ocean
Anoxygenic Photosynthesis
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Anoxygenic Phototrophic Fe(II) Oxidation
Antarctic Continent
Antarctica, Natural Analogue Site
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Anthony van Leewenhoek
Anthropology of Science
Antibiotic
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Antibody
Definition
Cross-References
Anticodon
Definition
Cross-References
Antimicrobial Agent
Antonie van Leeuwenhoek
Antonius a Leeuwenhoek
Antonj Leeuwenhoeck
AOGCM
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Apex Basalt Formation
Apex Basalt, Australia
Definition
Cross-References
Apex Chert
Definition
Cross-References
Apex Chert, Microfossils
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Geology of the Schopf Locality
Microfossils at the Schopf Locality
The Debate
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Aphelion
Definition
Cross-References
Apolar Molecule
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Apollo Asteroid
Definition
Cross-References
Apollo Mission
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
(99942) Apophis
Apophis Asteroid
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Readings
Apparent Motion
Apsidal Angle
Definition
Cross-References
Aptamer
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Aptamer-Based Biosensor
Aptasensor
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Aqueous Alteration
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Aqueous Interfaces
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Aqueous Minerals
Aquifer (Mars)
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Arachnoid
Definition
Cross-References
Archaea
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Archaean Biosignatures
Archaean Traces of Life
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Locating Well-Preserved Archaean Rocks from Habitable Environments
Demonstrating Syngenicity and Endogenicity
Textural Evidence of Life: Testing Abiotic Scenarios
Chemical Evidence of Life: Elemental and Isotopic Signatures
Carbon Isotopes
Sulfur Isotopes
Key Research Findings
Microfossils
Stromatolites and Microbially Induced Sedimentary Structures
Microborings
Carbon Isotopes
Sulfur Isotopes
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Archaeobacteria
Archean Drilling Projects
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
Archean Environmental Conditions
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Archean Eon
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Geographical and Temporal Distribution of Archean Terranes
Geology of Archean Terranes
Archean Geodynamics
Hydrosphere, Atmosphere, and Climate
Traces of Life
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and and Further Reading
Archean Mantle
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
Archean Tectonics
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Areology
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Argentina Space Agency
Argillaceous Earth
Arginine
Definition
Cross-References
Argonium (ArH+)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
ArH+
Ariel Space Mission
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Aromatic Hydrocarbon
Definition
Cross-References
Arrhenius Plot
Definition
Cross-References
Arrhenius Svante
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Arrokoth
Definition
Discovery
Orbit and Classification
Shape
Mass and Density
Rotation and Temperature
Surface Composition and Appearance
Color and Composition
Geology
Internal Structure
Formation
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Artificial Cell Division
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References
Artificial Cells
Artificial Chemistries
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Artificial Evolution
Artificial Life
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
The History of Life as Seen by Artificial Life Proponents
Appearance of Chemical Reaction Cycles and Autocatalytic Networks
Production by This Network of a Membrane Promoting Individualization and Catalyzing Constitutive Reactions
Self-Replication of This Elementary Cell
Genetic Coding and Evolution by Mutation, Recombination, and Selection
Conclusions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Artificial Meteorite
Artificial Organelles
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
ASA, Austria
Synonyms
Definition
History
ASB
Aseptic Process
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Aseptic Processing
Asgard, Archaea
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Asgardarchaeota
ASI
Synonyms
Definition
Askja Caldera, Lunar Natural Analog
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References
Asparagine
Definition
Cross-References
Aspartic Acid
Definition
Cross-References
ASPAST, Peru
Acronyms
Definition
ASPERA-4
Assay
Definition
Cross-References
Assimilative Metabolism
Definition
Cross-References
Association Constant
Asteroid
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Asteroid Dynamical Groupings
The Taxonomic Classification and Mineralogy of Asteroids
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Water and Organic Material in Asteroids
The Densities and Structure of Asteroids
Near-Earth Asteroids and the Impact Hazard
Asteroid Physical Properties Relevant to the Impact Hazard
Applications
Future Directions
Mitigation of Hazardous Asteroids
Asteroids in Extrasolar Planetary Systems
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Further Reading
Asteroid (433) Eros
Asteroid 101955
Asteroid 162173
Asteroid 25143
Asteroid Belt, Main
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Asteroseismology
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Asthenosphere
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Astrobiocentrism
Definition
References and Further Reading
Astrobioethics
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
The Moral Status of Extraterrestrial Life
Interstellar Communication
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Astrobiology
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
Astrobiology (IAU Commission)
Definition
History
Cross-References
Astrobiology as Science
Definition
Overview
Taxonomy
Is Astrobiology a Science Without a Subject?
Astrobiology as an Empirical Science
SETI
Cross-References
References
Astrobiology Graduates in Europe
Astrobiology Society of Britain
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Astroethics
Astrometric Orbit
Definition
Cross-References
Astrometric Planets
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Astrometry
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Astronomical Unit
Astronomy Using Radio Waves
Astrophysical Ice Spectroscopy
Asymmetric Reaction, Absolute
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Asymptotic Giant Branch Star
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Atacama Desert
Definition
Cross-References
Atacama Desert, Natural Analog
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Atmosphere, Organic Synthesis
Definition
Cross-References
Atmosphere, Primitive Envelope
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Atmosphere, Structure
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Atmosphere, Temperature Inversion
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Atmosphere-Ocean General Circulation Model
Atmospheric Circulation
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Venus and Titan
Earth and Mars
Jupiter and Saturn
Uranus and Neptune
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Atmospheric Dinitrogen Fixation
Atmospheric Dusts
Atmospheric Modeling, Gray Gas Model
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Atmospheric Modeling, Non-gray Gas Model
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Atmospheric Modeling, Radiative-Convective Equilibrium
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Atmospheric Modeling: 1D Model
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Atmospheric Particles
Atmospheric Processes, Escape
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Atmospheric Redox Change
Atmospheric Remote-Sensing Infrared Exoplanet Large-Survey
Atmospheric Retrieval for Exoplanets
Definition
Overview
Objectives for Exoplanets
Principle
Atmospheric Models
Statistical Methods
Optimal Estimation Method
Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC)
Nested Sampling
Difficulties for Exoplanets and Future Missions
Stratospheric Thermal Inversion
Clouds/Hazes
Water Abundance
The 3D Nature of Exoplanets
Future Telescopes
Cross-References
References
Further Reading
Atomic Fine Structure Cooling
Definition
Cross-References
Atomic Nitrogen
Atomistic Computer Simulation
Acronyms
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References
ATP
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
ATP Phosphohydrolase
ATP Synthase
Definition
Cross-References
ATPase
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
AU
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Australian Centre for Astrobiology
Definition
Cross-References
Austrian Space Agency, Austria
Autocatalysis
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Automaton, Chemical
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Autopoiesis
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
Autotroph
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Autotrophic Denitrification
Autotrophy
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Photoautotrophs
Chemolithoautotrophs
Key Research Findings
Autotrophic Pathways
Applications
Ecology
Autotrophy and Early Evolution of Life
Future Directions
Engineering Autotrophy
Cross-References
References
Autumnal Point
Available Water
Axial Tilt
Azane
Azulmin
B
Background
Definition
Bacteria
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Bacterial Microcompartments
Bacterial Spore
Bacteriochlorophyll
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Bacteriorhodopsin
Definition
Baltic Shield
Baly´s Experiment
Definition
Cross-References
Band Scan
Banded Iron Formation
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Key Research Findings
BIF Composition
Controls on BIF Deposition
BIF and Iron Ore
Future Directions
Cross-References
References
Further Reading
Bandpass
Definition
Cross-References
Barberton Greenstone Belt
Definition
History
Overview
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Barberton Greenstone Belt, Sedimentology
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Barberton Greenstone Belt, Traces of Early Life
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References
Barberton Supergroup
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Barite
Definition
Barophile
Barycenter
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Barycenter Velocity
Basalt
Definition
Cross-References
Basaltic Flood Plains
Base Pair
Definition
Cross-References
Basic and Acid
Bathybius Haeckelii
Definition
Cross-References
BBN
Beagle 2
Definition
Overview
References and Further Reading
Belcher Group, Microfossils
Definition
Cross-References
(101955) Bennu
Bennu Asteroid
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Benthic Mats
Benzene (C6H6)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References
Benzonitrile (C6H5CN)
Synonyms
Chemical Formula
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
BepiColombo
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Bernal´s Conception of Origins of Life
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Bet Pic b
Beta Electrons
Beta Pictoris b
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Beta Rays
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
BIF
Big Bang Nucleosynthesis
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Bimolecular Reaction
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Binary Stars, Young
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Binding Constant
Binding Energy
Definition
Cross-References
Bioastronomy
Definition
Cross-References
Biobarrier
Definition
Cross-References
Biobloc
Bioburden
Definition
Cross-References
Bioburden Controlled Environment
Definition
Cross-References
Bioburden Reduction
Definition
Cross-References
Biodetection System
Biodiversity
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
How Did Biodiversity Evolve in Space and Time to Reach the Current State?
How Much Biodiversity Exists and How Does Its Change or Loss Affect the System as a Whole?
How Does Biodiversity Correspond to the Delivery of Ecosystem Functions and Services and What Is the True Value of These Commo...
How Can Scientific Investigation Support Policy and Decision Making to Encourage More Sustainable Use of Biodiversity?
Key Research Findings
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Biodiversity (Planetary Protection)
Definition
Cross-References
Bioenergetics
Definition
Overview
Life and Energy
Active Transport
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Biofilm
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Biofilms
Biogenicity
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Biogeocentrism
Definition
References
Biogeochemical Cycle of Nitrogen
Biogeochemical Cycles
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Bioindicators
Bioindice
Bioinformatics
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Biological Efficacy
Definition
Cross-References
Biological Evolution
Biological Indicator
Definition
Cross-References
Biological Networks
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Biological Radiation Effects
Biological Safety Level
Synonyms
Definition
Biological Sensors
Biomarker
Biomarkers
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Biomarkers (Atmosphere)
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Biomarkers Atmospheric, Evolution over Geological Time
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Biomarkers, Morphological
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings and Applications
Body Fossils
Biominerals
Microbially Induced Sedimentary Structures (MISS) and Stromatolites
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Biomarkers, Spectral
Definition
History
Overview
Introduction
Basic Methodology
Atmospheric Features of a Habitable Planet
Key Research Findings
Spectra of Earth in Reflection, Emission, and Transmission
Characterizing Planetary Environments
Temperature and Radius of a Planet
Potential Biomarkers
Applications
Low-Resolution Spectral Information in the Visible to Near IR
Low-Resolution Spectral Information in the Mid-IR
Abiotic Sources of Biomarkers
Cryptic Worlds
Summary
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Biomineralization
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References
Biomorphs
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References
Biooxidation of Sulfur
Biopan
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Biopoesis
Biopolymer
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Bioprecipitation
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Biosensor
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Types of Detection
Classification by Bioreceptor Layer Type
Classification by Transducer Type
Biofunctionalization
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Biosignature
Biosignatures, Effect of Metamorphism
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Biosphere
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Biostabilization
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Biostack
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Biosynthesis
Biotic Crisis
Biotic Isotope Fractionation
Biotic Mineral Alteration
Biotic Mineral Dissolution and Complexation
Biotope
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Bipolar Flow
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Birthline
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Bitumen
Definition
Cross-References
Black Holes
Acronyms
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Dynamical Mass Measurements
Active Galactic Nuclei (AGN)
Gravitational Waves
Key Research Findings
Universality of Black Hole Accretion
Black Hole-Galaxy Coevolution
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Black Smoker
Definition
Cross-References
Black Smoker, Organic Chemistry
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Blackbody
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Blue-Green Algae
Blue-Green Bacteria
BNSC
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Bolometer
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Bolometric Magnitude
Definition
Cross-References
Borate
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Boron Isotopes
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Brahe (55 Cancri c)
Branching Fraction
Branching Ratio
Synonyms
Definition
Brazilian Space Agency
Breccia
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Bremsstrahlung Radiation
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Brethren of Purity
British National Space Council
Broadband Line Survey
Brown Dwarf
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
History
Key Research Findings
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Brownlee Particle
Bruno, Giordano
History
BSL
Buckminsterfullerene
Buckyball
Buffer
Definition
Buffon´s Conception of Origins of Life
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Building Blocks of Primitive Life
Bulk Silicate Earth
Synonyms
Acronyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Butadiyne
Butadiynyl Radical (C4H)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Bücherer-Bergs Synthesis
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Butanedioic Acid
Butlerow Reaction
Butyrine
C
C2H
C2H4O
C2H5OCHO
C3H2, c-C3H2
C3H7CN
C3N
C-Asteroid
Definition
Cross-References
C3N- Anion
Synonyms
Chemical Formula
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
C4H
C4H2
C5N- Anion
Chemical Formula
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
C6H6
CA
CAA
CAB, Spain
Definition
History
Cross-References
Cahn Ingold Prelog Rules
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
CAIs
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Calcareous Sediment
Calcium-Aluminum-Rich Inclusions
Caldophile
Callisto
Definition
Cross-References
Calvin´s Conception of Origins of Life
History
Cross-References
Calvin-Benson Cycle
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Campbellrand-Malmani Platform, South Africa
Definition
Cross-References
CAN, Canada
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Canadian Astrobiology Network
Canadian Precambrian Shield
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Canadian Shield
Candidate Phyla Radiation (CPR)
Canyon
Cap Carbonates
Definition
Cross-References
Capsid Encoding Organism
Carbamide
Carbamonitrile
Carbene
Definition
Cross-References
References
Carbimide
Carbodiimide
Carbodiimide (HNCNH)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Carbohydrate
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Presence of Carbohydrates in the Universe
Prebiotic Synthesis of Carbohydrates
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Carbon
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Carbon Isotopes
Electronic Structure
Native Forms of Carbon
Compounds of Carbon and the History of Organic Chemistry
Molecular Structure of Carbon Compounds
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Carbon Concentrating Mechanisms
Carbon Cycle, Biological
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Carbon Dioxide
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Carbon Isotopes in the Solar System
Definition
History
Overview
Carbon Isotope Fractionation
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Presolar Stardust
Bulk δ13C of the Solar System
CO2 in Planetary Atmospheres
Meteorites
SNC Meteorites (Shergottites, Nakhlites, and Chassignites)
Earth
Early Fractionation of the Solar System Carbon
Applications
Biogeochemical C Cycle on Earth
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Carbon Monosulfide (CS)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Carbon Monoxide
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Carbon Nitride
Carbon Source
Definition
Cross-References
Carbonaceous Chondrite
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Carbonaceous Chondrites, Organic Chemistry of
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References
Carbonaceous Meteorite
Carbonate Lake
Carbonate on Mars
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Carbonate, Extraterrestrial
Definition
Cross-References
Carbonation
Definition
Cross-References
Carbonization
Carbonyl
Definition
Cross-References
Carbonyldiamide
3-(6-Carboxy-3,4-dihydroxy-5-phosphanyloxan-2-yl)oxy-4,5-dihydroxy-6-phosphanyloxyoxane-2-carboxylic Acid (IUPAC)
Carboxylic Acid
Definition
Cross-References
Carboxylic Acids, Geological Record of
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Carboxysomes, Structure and Function
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
CASA*, Poland
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Cassini
Definition
Cross-References
Cassini Division
Definition
Cross-References
Cassini Mission
Cassini Spacecraft
Cassini State
Definition
Cross-References
Cassini Titan´s Probe
Cassini, Giovanni Domenico
History
Cassini-Huygens Space Mission
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Trajectory and Operations
The Spacecraft and Its Payload
Major Discoveries
Titan
Titan´s Atmosphere
Titan´s Surface
Enceladus
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Catabolism
Definition
Cross-References
Catalyst
Definition
Cross-References
Catena, Catenae
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Cavitation Zone
Cavus, Cavi
Definition
Cross-References
CC
CCD
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
CD
Celestial Equator
Definition
Cross-References
Cell
Definition
History
Overview
Cell Origin and Evolution
Basic Methodology
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Cell Communication
Cell Membrane
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Cell Models
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Cell Motility
Cell Wall
Definition
Cross-References
Cell, Minimal
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Cellular Automata
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Cellular Theory, History of
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Cenancestor
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Centaurs (Asteroids)
Definition
Cross-References
Center of Mass
Center of Mass Velocity
Synonyms
Definition
Centre for Advanced Studies in Astrobiology and Related Topics (CASA*)
Ceres
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Cerium, Anomalies of
Definition
Cross-References
CH
CH+
CH2
CH2CHCN
(CH2OH)2
CH3
CH3CH2CHO
CH3CH2CN
CH3CHCH2
CH3CHNH
CH3Cl
CH3CN
CH3COOCH3
CH3O
CH3OCH3
CH3SH
CH4
Chain of Being
Chalcedony
Chalcophile Elements
Definition
Cross-References
Chance and Randomness
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Chandrasekhar´s Limit
Definition
Cross-References
Channels
Chaotic Region
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Chaotic Terrains
Chaotropicity
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Charge Exchange
Charge Transfer
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Charge-Coupled Device
Charon
Definition
Overview
Discovery and Early Characterization
Mass, Size, and Internal Structure
Orbital and Spin Parameters
Surface Appearance and Geology
Surface Color, Composition, and Temperature
Formation
Cross-References
Further Reading
Chasma, Chasmata
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Chassignites
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Chassigny
Definition
Cross-References
Chemical Adsorption
Chemical Bistability
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Chemical Evolution
Chemical Fossil
Chemical Gardens
Synonyms
Acronyms
Definition
References and Further Reading
Chemical Reaction Network
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Chemical System
Chemical Zone
Chemiosmotic Potential
Chemisorption
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Chemoautotroph
Definition
Cross-References
Chemocline
Definition
Cross-References
Chemolithoautotroph
Definition
Cross-References
Chemolithotroph
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
Further Reading
Chemoorganotroph
Definition
Cross-References
Chemotaxis
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Chemotroph
Definition
Cross-References
CHEOPS
Definition
Chert
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Chicken or Egg Problem
Definition
Cross-References
Chicxulub Crater
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Chiral Excess
Chirality
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Emergence of Homochirality
Chemical Models for Enantioenrichment
Physical Models for Enantioenrichment
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Chiron
Definition
Cross-References
Chlorine Hydrides in the Interstellar Medium
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
Chloromethane (CH3Cl)
Synonyms
Chemical Formula
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Chloronium
Chloroniumyl
Chlorophylls
Definition
Cross-References
Chloroplast
Definition
Cross-References
Chondrite
Definition
Cross-References
Chondrule
Definition
Cross-References
Chromatographic Coelution
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Chromatography
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Chromium Isotopes
Synonyms
Chemical Formula
Definition
History
Overview
References and Further Reading
Chromophore
Definition
Cross-References
Chromosome
Definition
Cross-References
Chronostratigraphy
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Radiogenic Isotope Measurements
Relative Age Determinations
Absolute Age Determinations
Key Research Findings
The Moon
Mercury
Venus
Mars
Outer Solar System Objects
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
CIP Rules
Circular Dichroism
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Circumbinary Planet
Definition
Cross-Reference
References and Further Reading
Circumplanetary Disk
Circumprimary Planet
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Circumstellar Chemistry
Definition
Overview
Stellar Atmosphere and Inner Envelope
Outer Circumstellar Layers
Beyond the AGB Phase
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References
Further Reading
Circumstellar Disk
Circumstellar Grains
Cirrus Cloud
Definition
Cross-References
Cistron
Citric Acid Cycle
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Classification
Clathrate
Definition
Cross-References
Clathrate Hydrate
Definition
Cross-References
Clay
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Structure
Distribution
Importance
Importance in Chemical Evolution
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Clay Minerals
Cleanliness
Definition
Cross-References
Cleanroom
Definition
Cross-References
Cleverness
Climates, Diversity in the Solar System
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
Acknowledgment
References and Further Reading
Climates, Exoplanets
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Climates, Terrestrial Planets
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Cloning
Definition
Cross-References
Clouds
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
CMB
CN
CNES, France
Synonyms
Definition
CNO Cycle
Definition
History
Cross-References
CNSA, China
Definition
History
Cross-References
CO
CO2
CO2 Ice Cap (Mars)
Definition
Cross-References
CO2 Ice Clouds (Mars)
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Coagulation in Planetary Disks
Definition
Cross-References
Coagulation, Interstellar Dust Grains
Definition
Cross-References
Code
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Codon
Definition
Cross-References
Codon Table
Co-elution
Coenzyme
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Coevolution
History
Cross-References
Cofactor
Definition
Cross-References
Cognition
Coleman-Sagan Equation
Definition
Cross-References
References
Collection en Orbite de Matériel Extra Terrestre
Colonization, Biological
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Color Excess
Definition
Cross-References
Color Index
Definition
Cross-References
Color-Magnitude Diagram
Column Density
Definition
Cross-References
Combinatorial Library
Definition
Cross-References
Combinatorial Nucleic Acid Library
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Combustion
Definition
Cross-References
Comet
Definition
History
Overview
Names of Comets
Cometary Orbits, Cometary Families, and Cometary Reservoirs
The Nature of Comets and Basic Cometary Processes
Space Missions to Comets
Key Research Findings
Composition of Comets: Ices and Volatiles
Composition of Comets: Dust and (Semi-)Refractories
Isotopic Ratios
Formation and Evolution of Cometary Matter
Comets and the Origin of Life
Basic Methodology
Future Directions
Cross-References
References
Further Reading
COMET (Experiment)
Synonyms
Definition
Further Reading
Comet (Nucleus)
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Comet Borrelly
Definition
Cross-References
Comet Encke
Definition
Cross-References
Comet Giacobini-Zinner
Definition
Cross-References
Comet Hale-Bopp
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
Comet Halley
Definition
Overview
The Nucleus
The Coma
Origin and Fate of Comet Halley
Cross-References
References
Comet Hartley 2
Definition
Cross-References
Comet Hyakutake
Definition
Cross-References
Comet Interceptor Mission
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Comet Mc Naught
Definition
Cross-References
Comet Shoemaker-Levy 9
Definition
Overview
Temporal Sequence of the Impacts
New Molecules
Long-Term Evolution of Impact Phenomena
Magnetospheric Effects
About the SL9 Comet
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Comet Shower
Definition
Cross-References
Comet Tempel 1
Definition
Cross-References
Comet Wild 2
Definition
Cross-References
Comets, History of
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Commercial Use of Space
Synonyms
Acronyms
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Common Ancestor
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Community Genome
Compatible Solute
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
Further Reading
References
Complex Organic Molecules
Definition
Cross-References
Complex Organic Product
Complex Organisms
Complexity
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
Further Reading
References
Composomes
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Computational Biology
CONAE, Argentina
Synonyms
Definition
Concentration Gradients
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
Concestor
Concretions (Mars)
Definition
Cross-References
References
Condensate Layer
Condensation Sequence
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
Condensation Temperature
Definition
Conjugation
Definition
Cross-References
Constructive Biology
Contamination, Probability
Definition
Cross-References
Continental Accretion
Continental Crust
Definition
Cross-References
Continental Flood Basalt Provinces
Continental Lithosphere
Continental Plate
Continental Tectosphere
Continents
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Continuum
Definition
Cross-References
Contribution of Science to Society
Convection, Stellar
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Cool Early Earth
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Coonterunah Subgroup, Australia
Definition
Cross-References
Coordinate Systems
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Copernican Principle
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Copper Isotopes
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Core Accretion, Model for Giant Planet Formation
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Core, Planetary
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Corona Discharge
Definition
Cross-References
References
Corona, Coronae
Definition
Cross-References
Coronagraphy
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
The Basic Lyot´s Coronagraph
The New Coronagraphic Concepts
Improvement on the Lyot Concept with Amplitude Masks
Phase-Based Lyot Coronagraphs
Pupil Apodization
Interferometric Coronagraph
External Occulter Coronagraphs
Future Directions
Wavefront Control
Calibration of Residual Speckles
Differential Coronagraphy
Combining All Techniques
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
CoRoT 7b
Definition
References and Further Reading
CoRoT Satellite
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Asteroseismology
Solar-Like Pulsation, Granulation, and Convective Core
Red Giants and the Future of Our Sun
New Type of Pulsators
Search for Exoplanets
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Corotation Torque
Definition
Cross-References
Corrosion
Cosmic Background Radiation
Synonyms
History
References and Further Reading
Cosmic Dust
Cosmic Microwave Background
Cosmic Ray, Ionization Rate
Definition
Cross-References
Cosmic Rays
Definition
Overview
Cross References
References and Further Reading
Cosmic Rays in the Heliosphere
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Cosmic Spherules
Definition
Cross-References
Cosmic-Ray-Induced Desorption
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Cosmochemistry
Synonyms
Definition
History
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
What Do Meteorites Look Like?
Where Do Meteorites Come From?
Dating Meteorites and Other Bodies: A Rough Sequence of Events
Chemical and Isotopic Composition
Short-Lived Radionuclides
High-Temperature Processes in the Protoplanetary Disk
Formation and Early Evolution of Telluric Planets
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Cosmogony
Definition
Cosmogony: Greece
Definition
History
Overview
First Mythical Cosmogonies
Representations of Mother Earth and Phanes
Birth of Philosophical Cosmology
Cross-References
Further Reading
Cosmogony: Mesopotamia
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Cosmogony: Rome
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
Further Reading
Cosmological Principle
Cosmology: Native American
Definition
Overview
Key Research Findings
References and Further Reading
COSPAR
Definition
Cross-References
COST
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
Counterglow
Covalent Bonds
Definition
Cross-References
Crater Chain
Crater Lakes (Mars)
Definition
Cross-References
References
Crater, Impact
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Cratering Chronology
Craton
Definition
Cross-References
Crenarchaeota
Definition
Cross-References
Cretaceous/Paleogene (KPg)
Cretaceous/Tertiary Boundary (KT)
CRISPR
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
CRISPR/Cas
CRISPR/Cas9
Critical Core Mass (Giant Planet Formation)
Definition
Cross-References
Crossing Over
Crust
Definition
Cross-References
Crustal Deformation
Cryocooler
Cryophile
Cryosphere
Definition
Cross-References
Cryostat
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Cryovolcanism
Definition
Cross-References
Cryptoendolithic
Definition
Cross-References
CS
CSA
Definition
1934 CT
Culture Media
Curation Facilities and Sample Receiving Facilities
Acronyms
Definition
History
Overview
Further Reading
Curiosity
Curiosity Rover
Cuvier´s Conception of Origins of Life
History
Cross-References
Cyanamide
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Cyanic Acid
Cyanide Anion
Cyanide anion (CN-)
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Cyanide Ion
Cyano Radical
Cyanoacetylene
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References
Cyanoacetylide Anion
Cyanoamine
Cyanobacteria
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Thermophilic Cyanobacteria
Cyanobacteria Under Low Temperature, Desiccation, and Salinity Stress
Light and UV Radiation
Key Research Findings
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Cyanobacteria, Diversity and Evolution of
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Cyanobacterial Mats
Cyanobutadiynyl Radical
Cyanobutadiynyl Radical (C5N)
Synonyms
Chemical Formula
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Cyanoethane
Cyanoethynyl Radical (C3N)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Cyanogen
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Cyanogen Nitride
Cyanogen Radical (CN)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Cyanogenamide
Cyanomethane
Cyanomethanimine
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References
Cyanomethylamine
Cyanophyceae
Cyanopolyyne
Definition
Cross-References
Cyclic Nucleotide
Cyclic Nucleotide Monophosphate
Synonyms
Acronyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Cyclic Replicator Equation
Cyclohexa-1,3,5-triene
Cyclopropenylidene (C3H2)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Cysteine
Definition
Cross-References
Cystine
Definition
Cross-References
Cytochromes
Definition
Cross-References
Cytoplasm
Definition
Cross-References
Cytoplasmic Membrane
Cytosine
Definition
Cross-References
D
D-Amino Acids
Definition
Cross-References
D-Value
Definition
Cross-References
D/H ratio
D/L-Ratio
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References
Dallol Geothermal Area
Dallol Geothermal System
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Dallol Volcano
Dark Biosphere
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References
Further Reading
Dark Cloud
Dark Fringe Interferometry
Dark Reactions
Dark Streaks (Mars)
Definition
Cross-References
Darwin´s Conception of the Origins of Life
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Daughter Molecule, Comet
Definition
Cross-References
De Duve, Christian
De Maillet´s Conception of Origins of Life
History
Cross-References
Dead Zone
Deamination
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Debris Disk
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Future Research Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Further Reading
Decarboxylation
Definition
Cross-References
Decay Constant
Definition
Cross-References
Deccan Trapps
Definition
References and Further Reading
Declination
Definition
Cross-References
Deep Biosphere
Definition
Cross-References
Deep Impact
Definition
Follow-Up
Cross-References
Deep Subsurface Microbiology
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Deep Subsurface Microbiome
Deep-Sea Microbiology
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Degassing
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Degenerate Stars
Dehydration
Deimos
Definition
Cross-References
Delta Deposit
Delta Fan
Delta, Isotopic
Definition
Cross-References
Reference
Denaturation
Definition
Cross-References
Denitrification
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Dense Cloud
Definition
Cross-References
Dense Core
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Deoxyribonucleic Acid
Deoxyribose
Definition
Cross-References
Depyrogenation
Definition
Derivatization
Definition
Cross-References
Desiccation
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Desiccation Effects
Desorption
Definition
Cross-References
Detergent
Deuterated Ammonium Ion
Deuterium
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Deuterium/Hydrogen Ratio
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Devon Island
Definition
Cross-References
Devon Island´s Haughton Impact Structure
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Dewar Flask
DHA
Dharwar Craton
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
DHMR
Definition
Cross-References
Diacetylene (C4H2)
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Diagenesis
Definition
Cross-References
Diamictite/Diamicton
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Diamino Acid
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References
Diamino Carboxylic Acid
(Z)-2,3-Diaminobut-2-enedinitrile
2,3-Diaminomaleonitrile
Diaminomaleonitrile
Synonyms
Chemical Formula
Acronyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Diaminovaleric Acid
Diapirism
Definition
Cross-References
Diastereomers
Definition
Cross-References
Diazenylium (N2H+)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Diazotrophy
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
DIBs
Dicarboxylic Acid
Definition
Cross-References
Dichotomy, Planetary
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Dicyan
Dicyanogen
Diderot´s Conception of Origins of Life
History
Cross-References
Differentiation
Differentiation, Planetary
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Diffraction
Definition
Cross-References
Diffuse Bands
Diffuse Cloud
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Diffuse Galactic Light
Definition
Cross-References
Diffuse Interstellar Bands
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Observational Constraints on the DIB carriers
DIB Carrier Candidates
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Further Reading
Diffusion
Definition
Diffusion Potential
3,7-Dihydropurine-2,6-dione
Dihydroxyacetone
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Diketopiperazine
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Dimethyl Ether (CH3OCH3)
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Dinitrogen
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Dione
Definition
Cross-References
Dioxygen
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
References and Further Reading
Diphosphate
Diplogen
Dirac, Paul
History
Cross-References
Directed Evolution
Direct-Imaging, Planets
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Discovery of Extraterrestrial Life
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Disinfection
Definition
Cross-References
Disk Instability, Model for Giant Planet Formation
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Dismutation
Disproportionation
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Dissimilative Metabolism
Definition
Cross-References
Dissimilatory Nitrate Reduction to Ammonium (DNRA)
Dissolved Inorganic Carbon Equilibrium
Definition
Cross-References
Distal Impact Ejecta
Distillation, Rayleigh
Definition
Cross-References
Disulfide Bond
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Diversity of Life
Division
Dixon Island Formation, Western Australia
Definition
Cross-References
DLR, Germany
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
DNA
Synonyms
Definition
Overview and Key Research Findings
DNA Structure
DNA Coding of Proteins
DNA Packaging and Supercoiling
DNA Triplexes and Quadruplexes
DNA Interactions with Water and Cations
The Origin of DNA
Basic Methodology
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
DNA- (or RNA-)Dependent DNA Polymerase
DNA (or RNA-)-Dependent RNA Polymerase
DNA Damage
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
DNA Photoproducts
Vegetative Cells
Bacterial Spores
Radiation-Induced DNA Damage
OH and One-Electron Oxidation Products as One-Hit Lesions
Specific Radiation-Induced Clustered Damage
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
DNA Damage Correction
DNA Polymerase
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
DNA Recombination
DNA Repair
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
DNA Replicase
DNA Sequencing
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Domain (Taxonomy)
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Doppler Shift
Definition
Cross-References
Dormant State
Definition
Double Helix
Definition
Cross-References
DPANN, Archaea
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Drake Equation
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Dresser Formation, Traces of Life
Acronyms
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Future Directions
Cross-References
References
DTU Space, Denmark
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Dual Status Objects
Dubiofossil
Definition
Cross-References
Dust Cloud, Interstellar
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Dust Devils
Definition
Cross-References
Dust Grain
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Dwarf Planet
Definition
Cross-References
Dwarf Star
Definition
Cross-References
Dynamic Kinetic Stability
Acronyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Dynamical Friction
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Dynamical Instability
Definition
Cross-References
Dynamo, Planetary
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
E
E
Ea
EADS
EANA
Definition
Early Earth
Earth
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References
Earth´s Atmosphere, History of the Origins
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Earth´s Atmosphere, Origin and Evolution of
Definition
Overview
Origin of the Terrestrial Atmosphere
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Earth, Age of
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Earth, Formation, and Early Evolution
Definition
Overview
Introduction
Early Solar System, Earth, and Moon
Early Atmosphere
Late Heavy Bombardment and Its Effects
Early Hydrosphere
Did Plate Tectonics Work Out in the Early Archean?
Did Plate Tectonics Exist in the Hadean?
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Earth, Surface Evolution
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Earth´s Oldest Microfossils
Earth´s Oxygenation
Earth-Like Atmosphere
Definition
Earth-Like Planet
Eccentricity
Definition
Eclipse
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Eclipsing Binary
Ecliptic
Definition
Cross-References
Ecological Niche
Definition
Ecology, History of
Ecopoesis
Ecosphere
Ecosystem
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
ECSS
Definition
Cross-References
Effective Temperature
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
EH
Ejecta
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Ejection, Hyperbolic
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Electric Discharge
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Electrochemical Potential
Definition
Cross-References
Electromagnetic Radiation
Definition
Cross-References
Electromagnetic Spectrum
Definition
Cross-References
Electron Acceptor
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Electron Attachment
Definition
Cross-References
Electron Carrier
Definition
Cross-References
Electron Dissociative Recombination
Definition
Cross-References
Electron Donor
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Electron Radiative Recombination
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Electron Transport
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Electron Transport Chain
Electrophoresis
Definition
Cross-References
Elemental Carbon
Elemental Depletion
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Elephant Trunks
Eley-Rideal Mechanism
Definition
Cross-References
Embden-Meyerhof-Parnas Pathway
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
Embedded Bioburden
Emergence of Life
Emission Nebula
Definition
Cross-References
Emissivity
Definition
Cross-References
Empire
100% Enantiomeric Excess
Enantiomeric Excess
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
50:50 Enantiomeric Mixture
Enantiomeric Ratio
Enantiomers
Definition
Cross-References
Enantiopure
Encapsulated Bioburden
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Enceladus
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Endergonic
Definition
Cross-References
Endogenetic
Endogenicity
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Endogenous
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Endogenous Synthesis
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Production of Organics in the Atmosphere
Submarine Hydrothermal Systems
The Role of Minerals
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Endolithic
Definition
Cross-References
Endospore
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Endosymbiosis
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Endothermic
Definition
Cross-References
Energy
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Energy Conservation
Definition
Cross-References
Energy Sources
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Enthalpy
Definition
Cross-References
Entner-Doudoroff Pathway
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
Entropy
Definition
Cross-References
Environment
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Environmental Chamber
Environmental Genome
Environmental Sequence
Environmental Transcriptome
EnVision
Acronyms
Definition
History
Overview
EnVision Science Questions and Objectives
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Enzyme
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Enzymology, History of
Definition
Cross-References
Ephemeris
Definition
Cross-References
Epilithic
Definition
Cross-References
Episome
EPOXI Mission
Definition
Cross-References
References
EPS
Equation of State
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
Equinox
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
ERA
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
ERE
Eros Asteroid
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Error Rate
Definition
Cross-References
ESA
ESA - European Space Agency
ESA Solar Orbiter Mission
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Escape Velocity
Definition
Cross-References
ESPRESSO
Acronyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
ESTEC
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Ester
Definition
Eta-Earth
Definition
Cross References
References and Further Reading
Ethanal
Ethanamide
Ethane
Chemical Formula
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
1,2-Ethanediol
Ethanimine
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Ethanoic Acid
Ethanol
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Ether
Definition
Ethics of Astrobiology
Ethyl Alcohol
Ethyl Cyanide (CH3CH2CN)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Ethyl Formate
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Ethyl Methanoate
Ethyl Methyl Ether (C2H5OCH3)
Synonyms
Chemical Formula
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Ethylene Glycol (HOCH2CH2OH)
Synonyms
Chemical Formula
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Ethylene Oxide (C2H4O)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References
Ethyl-glycine
Ethyne, HCCH
Ethynyl Radical (C2H)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Ethynyloxy
Eucarya
Eukarya
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Eukaryote
Eukaryotes, Appearance and Early Evolution of
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
EURECA
Definition
Cross-References
Europa
Definition
Overview
Surface Geology
Internal Structure and Subsurface Ocean
Transient Atmosphere
Potential for Extraterrestrial Life
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Europa Analogues
Definition
Cross-References
European Astrobiology Institute
Acronyms
Definition
European Cooperation in Science and Technology
European Space Agency
Definition
Cross-References
European Space Exposure Facility (ESEF)
European Space Research and Technology Centre
Euryarchaeota
Definition
Cross-References
EUV
Euxinic Ocean
Evaporite
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References
Evaporites, Archean
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Applications
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Evaporitic Rocks and Minerals
Evidence in Astrobiology
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Extraordinary Claims Require Extraordinary Evidence
Biosignatures
The Evidence Value of Non-findings
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Evo-devo
Definition
Evolution of Species, Islamic Ideas
Definition
Overview
References and Further Reading
Evolution, Biological
Synonyms
Definition
History
Evolution: What´s in a Word?
Basic Methodology
Evolution in Biology: Theory and Facts
Evolution Through Multiple Sciences
Key Research Findings
Evolution: Biological Processes
Evolution: Structures and History
Applications
Evolution Exported
Evolution Everyday
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Evolution, Chemical
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Evolution, In Vitro
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Evolution, Molecular
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Evolutionary Sequence of Young Stellar Objects
Evolutionary Tree
Exergonic
Definition
Cross-References
Exobiologie Experiment
Definition
References and Further Reading
Exobiology
Exogenetic
Exogenic
Exogenous
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
ExoMars
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
The Martian Environment and the Need for Subsurface Exploration
Key Research Findings
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Exomoon
Definition
References and Further Reading
Exon
Definition
Cross-References
Exoplanet Simulation Chamber
Exoplanet, Detection, and Characterization
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
The Indirect Detection Techniques
Astrometry and Velocimetry
The Method of Transits
The Microlensing Technique
Comparison of the Different Indirect Methods
Direct Detection Methods
Spectrophotometric Measurements: Secondary Transits
Imaging Techniques
Radio Detection
An Inventory of Exoplanets, over 25 Years After the First Discovery
The (Mass, Distance) Diagram of Exoplanets
The Mass Distribution of Exoplanets and the ``Brown Dwarf Desert´´
A Wide Range of Eccentricities
A Large Number of Multiple Systems
The Effect of Metallicity
Scenarios for Planetary Formation
From Detection to Characterization
What Kind of Exoplanets Can We Expect?
The Infrared Spectrum of an Exoplanet
Infrared Spectroscopy of Transit Exoplanets
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Further Reading
Exoplanets, Discovery
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Exopolymers
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Exothermic
Definition
Cross-References
Exozodi
Exozodiacal Light
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Experimental Evolution
Explosive Nucleosynthesis
EXPOSE
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References
Further Reading
Exposed Surface Bioburden
Definition
Cross-References
EXPOSE-E
EXPOSE-R
EXPOSE-R2
Exposure Facilities
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Exposure Platforms
Exposure Trays
Extended Red Emission
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Extensive Plain
Extinct Radionuclides
Synonym
Definition
Cross-References
Extinction Event
Extinction, Interstellar or Atmospheric
Definition
Cross-References
Extinction-Level Event
Extracellular Polymeric Substances
Extracellular Polymers
Extracellular Polysaccharides
Extrachromosomal Genetic Element
Extrasolar Planets
Extrasolar Planets Detection and Characterization
Extraterrestrial Delivery of Organic Compounds
Definition
Overview
Delivery of Extraterrestrial Organic Matter
Comets
Meteorites
Micrometeorites
Basic Methodology
Laboratory and Space Experiments Supporting Extraterrestrial Delivery
Synthesis
Key Research Findings
Applications
Space Travel
Impact Shock Chemistry
Future Directions
Cross-References
References
Extreme Environment
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Extreme Field Sites
Extreme Ultraviolet Light
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Extremophiles
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Thermophiles
Psychrophiles
Halophiles
Acidophiles
Alkaliphiles
Piezophiles
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Extremophilic Organisms
F
Facula, Faculae
Definition
Cross-References
Faint Young Sun Paradox
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Different Atmospheric Composition: Greenhouses
Albedo Effects Due to Cloud Formation and Land Coverage
A Brighter Young Sun
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Faint Young Sun Problem
False Negative
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
False Positive
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
Far Infrared (Far IR)
Farbstreifen Sandwatt
Fatty Acids
Fatty Acids, Geological Record of
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Feeding Zone
Definition
Cross-References
Fennoscandia
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Fennoscandian Shield
Ferment (Obsolete)
Fermentation
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Fermi Paradox
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Fermi, Enrico
History
Cross-References
Fidelity
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Fig Tree Group
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Fischer Projection
Definition
Cross-References
Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis
Fischer-Tropsch-Type Reaction
Definition
History
Overview
Key Research Findings
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Fischer-Tropsch-Type Reaction: Effects on Isotopic Fractionation
Synonyms
Acronyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Fitness
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Flint
Flood Basalt
Flow Reactor
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Fluid Inclusions
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
History and Basic Methodology
Fluid Inclusions in Meteorites and Early Archean Sediments
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Fluid-Bearing Micro Cavities
Fluorescence
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer
Fluorescence Spectroscopy
Fluorescent Emission
Fluorimetry
Fluorometry
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Fluorophore
Definition
Cross-References
Fluvial or River Delta
Flux, Radiative
Definition
Cross-References
Fomalhaut b
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Fool´s Gold
Footballene
Formaldehyde
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Prebiotic Sources of HCHO
Prebiotic Sinks for HCHO
Prebiotic Solution Chemistry of HCHO
Oligomerization Chemistry: Polyoxymethylene
Oligomerization Chemistry: The Formose Reaction
Reactions with Amines
Reactions with Sulfur Species
Mineral Interactions
Reaction with HCN
Interstellar Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde in Biology
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Formamide (NH2CHO)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Formamido Pyrimidines
Synonyms
Definition
History
References
Formamine
Formation of Planetesimals: The Building Blocks of Planets
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Formic Acid
Synonyms
Definition
References and Further Reading
Formic Acid Methyl Ester
Formonitrile
Formose Reaction
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Reaction Mechanism
Mineral Interactions
Competing Chemistry
Cannizzaro Reactions
Oligomerization to Polyoxymethylene
Sugar Degradation
Photocatalysis and Reaction with CH3CHO
Environmental Limitations
Possible Geological Settings for the Formose Reaction
Eutectic Freezing
Concentration by Evaporation
Hydrothermal Vents
Future Directions
Cross-References
References
Further Reading
Formyl Cation (HCO+)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Förster Resonance Energy Transfer
Fortescue Group
Definition
Cross-References
Fossa, Fossae
Definition
Cross-References
Fossil
Definition
Cross-References
Fossilization Processes
Fossilization, Process of
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References
Fossilized Microbial Mats
Fossils (from Antiquity to the Eighteenth Century)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
Further Reading
Foton Capsule, Spacecraft
Definition
Cross-References
Fractional Abundances
Fractionation
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Fractionation, Mass Independent and Dependent
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Fragmentation of Interstellar Clouds
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Free Amino Acid
Definition
Cross-References
Free Energy
Definition
Cross-References
Free Radical
Free Water
Freefall
Free-Fall Time
Definition
Cross-References
Free-Free Emission
French Astrobiology Society
French Space Agency
Freon-40
FRET
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
FRIPON
Acronyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
Reference and Further Reading
Frost Line
FU Orionis (Object)
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References
Fullerane
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Fullerene
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Fullness of Being
Fulminic Acid
Fumarole
Definition
Cross-References
Functional Inhibitor
Fungal Weathering
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Fungi
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
FUor
Furanose
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References
Fusion Crust
Definition
Cross-References
G
Ga
Synonyms
Acronyms
Definition
Cross-References
Gabbro
Definition
Cross-References
Gaia
Gaia Hypothesis
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Gaia Mission
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Galactic Archaeology
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Thick and Thin Disks
Galactic Bulge
Galactic Halo
Globular Clusters
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Galactic Habitable Zone
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Galaxy
Definition
Cross-References
Galilean Satellites
Synonyms
Definition
Galileo (55 Cancri b)
Galileo Galilei
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Galileo Mission
Definition
Overview
References and Further Reading
Gamma Cephei
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Gamma Rays
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Ganymede
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Gas Chromatography
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry
Gas Drag
Definition
Cross-References
Gas Giant Planet
Definition
Cross-References
Gas-Grain Chemistry
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Gaspra
Definition
GC
GC/MS
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
GCM
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Dynamics
Physics
Radiative Transfer
Convection Turbulence
Clouds and Aerosols
Exchanges with the Surface
Others
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Gegenschein
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
GEMs
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Gene
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Gene Editing
Gene Expression
Definition
Cross-References
Gene Sequencing
Gene, Selfish
General Circulation
General Circulation Model
Genetic Code
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Genetic Edition
Genetic Map
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Genetics
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Genetics, History of
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Genome
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Genome Editing
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
Further Reading
Genome Edition
Genome, Minimal
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Genomic Edition
Genomics
Definition
Cross-References
Genotype
Definition
Cross-References
Genus
Definition
Cross-References
Geobiology Society
Definition
Geocentric Worldview
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Geochronology
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
``Rich´´ Chronometers: U-Pb and K-Ar
``Poor´´ Chronometers: Isochrons
Extinct Radioactivities
Closure Temperatures
Basic Methodology
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Geoethics
Definition
History
References and Further Reading
Geolipids
Geological Time Scale, History of
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Geological Timescale
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Geology of mars
Geomicrobiology
Definition
Cross-References
Geotherm
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Geothermal Flux
Geothermal Gradient
Definition
Cross-References
References
Geothermobarometers
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Germ
German Aerospace Center
Geyser
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Geysir
Giant Impact
Definition
Cross-References
Giant Planets
Synonyms
Definition
History
Early Exploration
The Space Exploration of the Giant Planets
Overview
The Formation of the Giant Planets
Gaseous Giants and Icy Giants
Migration of the Giant Planets
Atmospheric Composition of the Giant Planets
Thermal Structure, Cloud Structure, and Dynamics
Internal Structure
Magnetospheres
Rings and Satellites
Outer Satellites
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Giga-annum
Gigayear
Giotto Spacecraft
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
GJ 667C: First System with Multiple Super-Earth Candidates in the Habitable Zone
References and Further Reading
Glacial Period
Glaciation
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Glassy Carbon
Global Circulation
Global Climate Model
Globular Cluster
Definition
Cross-References
Globule, Nanoglobule
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Glove Box
Definition
Glucogenesis
Gluconeogenesis
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Glutamic Acid
Definition
Cross-References
Glutamine
Definition
Cross-References
Glyceraldehyde
Definition
Cross-References
Glycerin
Glycerine
Glycerol
Synonyms
Definition
Glycine
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Glycine Anhydride
Glycinonitrile
Glycocoll
Glycol
Glycolaldehyde (HOCH2CHO)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Glycolic Acid
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Glycolysis
Definition
Cross-References
Glycolyurea
Gneiss
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Goethite
Synonyms
Chemical Formula
Definition
Cross-References
References
Goldschmidt, Viktor Moritz
History
Cross-References
Gondwana
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
Gondwanaland
Graben
Gram-Negative Bacteria
Definition
Cross-References
Gram-Positive Bacteria
Definition
Cross-References
Granite
Definition
Cross-References
Graphite
Definition
Cross-References
Gravitation
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
The Two-Body Problem and Its Perturbations
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Gravitational Biology
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Cellular and Molecular Biology
Animal Biology
Plant Biology
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Gravitational Collapse, Planetary
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Gravitational Collapse, Stellar
Definition
Cross-References
Gravitational Focusing
Definition
Cross-References
Gravitational Instability
Gravitational Instability (Model for Giant Planet Formation)
Gravity
Great Chain of Being
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Great Oxidation Episode
Great Oxidation Event
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Great Oxidation Transition
Green Bacteria
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Green Bank Equation
Green Nonsulfur Bacteria
Green Sulfur Bacteria
Greenhouse Effect
Definition
Cross-References
Greenschist Facies
Definition
Cross-References
Greenstone Belt
Definition
Cross-References
Grey Body
Definition
Cross-References
Groove
Guanine
Definition
Cross-References
Gullies
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Gunflint Formation
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
A Redox-Sensitive Ecosystem
Sudbury Impact Record
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Gunflint Microbiota
Definition
Overview
Gunflint Microbiota
Gunflint Paleoenvironmental Conditions
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
H
H Bond
H+ Region
H2Cl+
H2CS
H2NCN
H2O
H2O+
H2S
H3O+
Habitability of the Solar System
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Habitability on Mars
Definition
Early Mars
Mars Today
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Habitability, Effect of Eccentricity
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Habitability, Effects of Stellar Irradiation
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Habitability, Role of the Atmosphere
Definition
Overview
Key Research Findings
Modern Solar System
Atmospheric Evolution
Early Venus and Mars
Beyond the Solar System
Super-Earths
Waterworlds and Desertworlds
Earth-Like Planets Orbiting M Dwarf Stars
Atmospheric Habitability of K and F Stars
Habitability Beyond the Classical HZ
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Habitable Planet, Characterization
Definition
History
Overview
Introduction
Basic Methodology
Characterize a Habitable Planet
Key Research Findings
Characterizing Planetary Environments
Temperature and Radius of a Planet
Potential Biomarkers
Cryptic Worlds, Surface Features and Cloud Features
Summary
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Habitable Zone
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References
Further Reading
Habitable Zone Around Binary Star Systems
Definition
Basic Methodology
References and Further Reading
Habitable Zone in Binary Stars Systems
Definition
Basic Methodology
References and Further Reading
Habitable Zone in Multi-star Systems
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Habitable Zone, Effect of Tidal Locking
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Habitat
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
HAC
Hadean
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Hadean Mantle
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Hadley Cells
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Haeckel´s Conception of Origins of Life
History
Cross-References
Haldane´s Conception of Origins of Life
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Half-Life
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Half-Major Axis
Halley, Edmond
History
Cross-References
Halogen
Definition
Halophile
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Halotolerance
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Handedness
Haphazardness
Hapten
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Hard Landing
Definition
Cross-References
Hard Snowball
HARPS
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Harriot (55 Cancri f)
HAT
HATNet
Synonyms
Definition
Cross References
Hayabusa Missions
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Haze Particles
HC3O+
Synonyms
Chemical Formula
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
HC4H
HC4NC
Chemical Formula
Definition
Cross-References
References
HC5NH+
Synonyms
Chemical Formula
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
HCl
HCl+
HCN Dimer
HCN Polymer
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
HCNO Isomers
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
HCO+
HCOOCH3
HCP
HD 189733b
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
HD 209458b
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
HD 44179
Heat Flow, Planetary
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Heat Flux
Heat Shock
Definition
Cross-References
Heat Transfer, Planetary
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References
Further Reading
Heat-Stable DNA Polymerase
Heavy Atom Beams
Synonyms
Definition
References
Heavy Charged Particle
Heavy Element
Definition
Cross-References
6 Hebe
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
Heavy Hydrogen
Heavy Ion
Heavy Nucleus
Heavy Primary
Heliocentric Worldview
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Helium Nuclei
Hematite
Chemical Formula
Definition
Cross-References
Heme
Definition
Cross-References
HEPA Filters
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Herschel Mission
Definition
History
Overview
Mission
Spacecraft and Telescope
Science Instruments
Basic Methodology
Operations and Science Ground Segment
Observing
Key Research Findings
The ``Cool Universe´´
The Galactic Plane
A Stellar Nursery
Astrochemistry Revealed
Water
The Evolution of Galaxies
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Further Reading
Herschel, William
History
References and Further Reading
Hertzsprung-Russell Diagram
Synonyms
Acronyms
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Populated Regions
Main Sequence
Giants and Supergiants
Instability Strip
White Dwarf Location
Theoretical Tracks
Before the Main Sequence: Hayashi Tracks
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Hesperian
Definition
Cross-References
Heterocycle
Definition
Cross-References
Heterotroph
Definition
Cross-References
Heterotrophic Denitrification
Heterotrophic Hypothesis
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Hexamethyleneamine
Hexamethylenetetramine
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Hexamine
HGT
High Accuracy Radial-Velocity Planet Searcher
High Resolution Echelle Spectrometer
High Speed Jetstream
High-Dispersion Spectroscopy
High-Efficiency Particulate Air Filters
High-Efficiency Particulate-Absorbing Filters
High-Efficiency Particulate-Arresting Filters
High-Energy Particles
High-Energy Photons
High-Energy Radiation
Highland Region
High-Magnesium Granodiorite
High-Mass Star
Definition
Cross-References
High-Performance Liquid Chromatography
High-Pressure Liquid Chromatography
HII Region
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Hill Radius/Sphere
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Hill/Lagrange Stability
Definition
Cross-References
Hipparcos
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
HIRES
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Histidine
Definition
Cross-References
HMT
HNC
HNCHCN
HNCNH
HO2
HOCH2CH2OH
HOCH2CHO
HOCH2COCH2OH
Holism
Holophyletic
Homeostasis
Definition
History
Cross-References
Homochirality
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
References and Further Reading
Homology
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Homolysis
Synonyms
Definition
Homolytic Fission
Hoogsteen Pair
Definition
Cross-References
HOOH
Hopanes, Geological Record of
Definition
Cross-References
HOPE Mission
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Hope Mission
Cross-References
Horizontal Branch
Definition
Cross-References
Horizontal Gene Transfer
Hot Core
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Hot Corino
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Hot Jupiters
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Hot Molecular Core
Hot Neptunes
Definition
Cross-References
Hot Spring Microbiology
Definition
Cross-References
Hot Vent Microbiology
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Hotspot
Hoyle, Fred
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
H-phosphonate
HPLC
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
HR Diagram
HST
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Key Research Findings
Future Directions
Cross-References
References
Hubble Space Telescope
Hubble, Edwin
History
Hungarian-Made Automatic Telescope Network
Huronian Glaciation
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Huxley´s Conception on Origins of Life
History
Cross-References
Huygens
Definition
Cross-References
Huygens Probe
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Huygens Spacecraft
Hybridization
Definition
Cross-References
Hydantoin
Synonyms
Definition
Hydantoin Formation
Hydrocarbons
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Hydrodynamic Escape
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Hydrodynamic Flow
Definition
Hydrogen
Definition
Cross-References
Hydrogen Bond
Synonyms
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Hydrogen Chloride
Hydrogen Chloride (HCI)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References
Hydrogen Cyanamide
Hydrogen Cyanide
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References
Hydrogen Cyanide Polymer
Hydrogen Ion Concentration Index
Hydrogen Isocyanide (HNC)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Hydrogen Isotopes
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References
Hydrogen Oxide
Hydrogen Phosphide
Hydrogen Sulfide
Synonyms
Chemical Formula
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Hydrogenated Amorphous Carbon
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Hydrogenated Fullerene
Hydrogenosomes
Definition
Cross-References
Hydrolysis
Definition
Cross-References
Hydromagnetics
Hydrophobic Effect
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Hydrophobicity
Definition
Cross-References
Hydrosphere
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Hydrostatic Balance
Hydrostatic Equilibrium
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Hydrothermal Alteration
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
References and Further Reading
Hydrothermal Environments
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Hydrothermal Reaction
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Hydrothermal Vent Microbiology
Hydrothermal Vent Origin of Life Models
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Hydroxy Acid
Definition
Cross-References
Hydroxyacetaldehyde
2-Hydroxyethanoic Acid
Hydroxyl Group
Definition
Cross-References
Hydroxyl Radical (OH)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
4-Hydroxyphenylalanine
$16-Hydroxypurine
Hygiea
Definition
History
Cross-References
Hypercycle
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Hypersaline Environment
Definition
Hypersaline Lake
Hypertelescope
Hyperthermophile
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Hypolithic
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Hypoxanthine
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
HZE Particle
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
I
IAC, Colombia
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
IAF
Synonyms
Definition
Iapetus
Definition
Cross-References
IAU
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Ibn Battuta Desert
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References
Ice
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Ice Line
Ice-Albedo Bifurcation
Icy Moons Chamber
243 IDA
Ida
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
IDP
IEC
IEP
Igneous Rock
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Ikhwan al-Safa
Synonyms
Overview
References and Further Reading
IKI
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Imaginary Voyages (from Antiquity to the Eighteenth Century)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Imaging
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
Further Reading
IMF
2, 4-Imidazolelidinedione
Imidogen (NH)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Impact Basin
Definition
Cross-References
Impact Degassing
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Impact Melt Rock
Definition
Cross-References
Impact Parameter
Definition
Impact, Hit and Run
Definition
Cross-References
Impact, Probability of
Definition
Impactite
Definition
Cross-References
In Vitro Evolution
Inactivation
Definition
Cross-References
Inclination (Astronomy)
Definition
Cross-References
Indeterminacy
Indian Space Research Organization
Indigenous
Inelastic Photon Scattering
Infrared Astronomical Satellite
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Infrared Astronomy
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Infrared Dark Cloud
Acronyms
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Future Directions
Cross-References
References
Infrared Excess
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Infrared Space Observatory
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
References and Further Reading
Infrared Spectroscopy
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Ingenuity
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Initial Mass Function
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Initial Mass Function, Origin of
Overview
Key Research Findings
Theory of the Stellar Initial Mass Function
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Insoluble Organic Matter
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Institut for Rumforskning og -teknologi
Instituto de Astrobiología de Colombia
Intellect
Intelligence
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Intelligence, Evolution of
Synonyms
Definition
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Intelligence in Early Unicellular Life
The Evolution of Intelligence in Metazoans
Intelligence in Bilaterally Symmetrical Invertebrates and Vertebrates
Brain Size and Organization
Common Biases
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Interference Zone
Interferometry
Synonyms
Acronyms
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Interior Degassing
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Further Reading
Interior Outgassing
Interior Structure of Low-Mass Exoplanets
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Interior Structure, Planetary
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
International Astrobiology Society
International Astronautical Federation
International Astronomical Union
International Organization for Standardization
International Society for the Study of the Origin of Life
International Space Science Institute
International Space Station
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry
Interplanetary Dust Particle
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Interplanetary Transfer of Life
Interstellar Chemical Processes
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Gas-Phase Chemistry
Photochemistry
Ion-Neutral Chemistry
Neutral-Neutral Chemistry
Anions
Shocks
Surface Chemistry
Radiation Effects
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Interstellar Chemistry
Interstellar Cloud
Definition
Cross-References
Interstellar Dust
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Future Directions
Cross-References
References
Interstellar Dust Spectroscopy
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Interstellar Filaments
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Omnipresence and Universality of Filamentary Structures in the Cold ISM
The Key Role of Interstellar Filaments in the Star Formation Process
Toward a Universal Scenario for Star Formation?
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Interstellar Grain
Interstellar Grains
Interstellar Ice Spectroscopy Experiments
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Interstellar Ices
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Further Reading
Interstellar Medium
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
HII Regions
Two-Phase Interstellar Medium
Three-Phase Interstellar Medium
Molecular Clouds
Summary
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Interstellar Molecule
Definition
Cross-References
Interstellar Particles
Intervening Sequence
Intron
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Io
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
IOM
Ion Beams
Ion-Exchange Chromatography
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
Ion-Neutral Reaction
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Ionization Constant
Definition
Cross-References
Ionizing Radiation, Biological Effects
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Ion-Molecule Reaction
IRAS
IRAS16293-2422
Definition
History
Overview
Physical Structure
Chemistry
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
IRC+10216
Definition
Cross-References
Iridium
Definition
Cross-References
Iron
Definition
Cross-References
Iron Carbonate
Iron Cycle
Definition
Overview
Iron Oxidation
Iron Reduction
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Iron Isotopes
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References
Iron Oxidation
Acronyms
Definition
Overview
Aerobic Iron Oxidation
Chemolithotrophic Anaerobic Iron Oxidation
Photosynthetic Anaerobic Iron Oxidation
Relevance to Astrobiology
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Iron Oxides, Hydroxides, and Oxyhydroxides
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Iron Oxyhydroxides
Iron Reduction
Acronyms
Definition
Overview
Iron Reduction in Modern Environments
Iron Reduction on Early Earth
Relevance to Astrobiology
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Iron Spar
ISA
ISM
ISO
ISO (Normative Organization)
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Isochron
Definition
Cross-References
Isochrone
Definition
Cross-References
Isocyanatomethane
Isocyanic Acid
Isoelectric Point
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Isofulminic Acid
Isolation Mass
Definition
Cross-References
Isoleucine
Definition
Cross-References
Isomer
Definition
Cross-References
Isoprenoids
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
Further Reading
Isotope
Definition
Cross-References
Isotope Biological Markers
Isotope Biosignatures
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Isotopic Biosignatures Indicating Microbial Life on an Early Earth: Recent Studies from the Barberton Greenstone Belt
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Isotope Effect
Isotope Fractionation
Isotopes of Chromium
Isotope-Selective Photolysis
Isotopic Effect
Isotopic Exchange Reaction
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Isotopic Fractionation (Interstellar Medium)
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Isotopic Fractionation (Planetary Process)
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
Further Reading
Isotopic Isomer
Isotopic Ratio
Definition
Cross-References
Isotopic Traces of Life
Isotopolog
Definition
Cross-References
Isotopomer
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Isovaline
Definition
Cross-References
ISRO, India
Synonyms
Definition
ISS
ISSI
Synonyms
Definition
References and Further Reading
ISSOL
Synonyms
Overview
References and Further Reading
Isua Greenstone Belt
Isua Supracrustal Belt
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Early Earth Differentiation
Traces of Life and Early Earth Surface Conditions
The Composition of the Isua Supracrustal Belt
Metamorphism, Deformation, and Metasomatism
References and Further Reading
Isuakasia
Itabirite
Italian Society of Astrobiology
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Italian Space Agency
Itokawa Asteroid
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References
Itsaq Gneiss Complex
IUPAC
Synonyms
Definition
J
JABC, Japan
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Jack Hills (Yilgarn Craton, Western Australia)
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
James Webb Space Telescope
Janssen (55 Cancri e)
Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency
Japan Astrobiology Consortium
Jarosite
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References
Jasper
Jaspilite
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
JAXA
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
1847 JB
Jeans Criterion
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Jeans Escape
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Johnson UBV Bandpasses
Definition
Cross-References
Jovian Planets
JPL
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
3 JUNO
Juno
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
Jupiter
Definition
Overview
Early Observations
The Space Exploration of Jupiter
Dynamical Atmospheric Structure
Atmospheric Composition and Structure
Elemental and Abundance Ratios in Jupiter
Internal Structure
The Jovian Magnetosphere
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Jupiter Icy Moon Explorer Mission
Acronyms
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Jupiter´s Biggest Moons
JWST
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
K
K, REE, and P-Rich Lunar Material
K/T Boundary
Kaapvaal Craton, South Africa
Definition
Cross-References
Kant-Laplace Nebular Hypothesis
History
Cross-References
References
Kaolin
Kaolinite
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Kelvin-Helmholtz Timescale
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Kepler
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Kepler 11: Multiple Transiting Planet System
Definition
Cross-References
References
Further Reading
Kepler 16b: First Circumbinary Planet
Definition
References
Further Reading
Kepler 186f: First Earth-Sized Planet in Habitable Zone
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Kepler 47: First Multi-circumbinary Planet System
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Kepler 9: First Transiting System Confirmed by TTV
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Kepler, Johannes
History
Kepler-10
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Kepler-37b: A Moon-Sized Planet
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Kepler-444
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Keplerian Orbits
Definition
References and Further Reading
Kerogen
Definition
Cross-References
Kerogen-Like Matter
Ketenyl Radical (HCCO)
Synonyms
Chemical Formula
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Ketose
Definition
Cross-References
Kinetic Isotope Effect
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Klenow Fragment
Komatiite
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Korarchaeota
Definition
Cross-References
Kozai Mechanism
Definition
Cross-References
Krebs Cycle
Kreep
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
KT Boundary
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References
Further Reading
Kuiper Belt
Definition
Overview
Dynamical Classification
Basic Methodology
Composition
Key Research Findings
Water Ice Group
Methane Group
Methanol Group
Featureless Spectra Group
The Largest Objects
Pluto
Eris
Makemake
Haumea
Sedna
Quaoar
Orcus
Physical Processes
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Kuiper Belt Object
L
L-Amino Acids
Definition
Cross-References
L1544
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Lab on a Chip
Laboratoire Interuniversitaire des Systèmes Atmosphériques
Laboratory Astrophysics, General Definition of
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Laboratory Characterization of Meteorites
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Laboratory Dust Analogs
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Laboratory Ice Spectroscopy
Labyrinthus, Labyrinthi
Definition
Cross-References
Lactic Acid
Definition
Cross-References
Lacus
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Ladder of Nature
Lagrange Points
Lagrangian Point Objects
Lagrangian Points
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Lake
Lamarck´s Conception of Origins of Life
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Laminated Microbial Ecosystems
Landing Site
Definition
Cross-References
Landmass Accretion
Landslide (Mars)
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Langevin Rate Coefficient
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Langevin Value
Langmuir-Hinshelwood Mechanism
Definition
Cross-References
References
Lanthanides
Laplace Resonance
Definition
Cross-References
Large Ice-Cap Instability
Large Millimeter Telescope
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Larson´s Law
Definition
Cross-References
Last Common Ancestor
Last Universal Ancestor
Last Universal Common Ancestor
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Late Heavy Bombardment
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Late Veneer
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Late-Stage Accretion
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Latent Heat
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Lateral Gene Transfer
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Laterites
Late-Stage Chaotic Growth
Laurasia
Definition
Cross-References
Lava Tube
Lava Tubes
Definition
Cross-References
Law of Mass Action
LC
LC/MS
LCA
LDEF
Leeuwenhoek, Antony van
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Lemaître´s Theory of Expanding Universe (History)
History
References and Further Reading
Lenticula, Lenticulae
Definition
Cross-References
LET
Leuchs´ Anhydride
Leucine
Definition
Cross-References
LHB
LHS-1140b
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Libration
Definition
Cross-References
Lichens
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Life
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Life in the Solar System (History)
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Life Support Systems
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Further Reading
Life, Artificial
Life, Concept of (from Antiquity to the Eighteenth Century)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Life, Definition of
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Life, Definition of (from Antiquity to the Eighteenth Century)
Life, Limits of
Life, Value of
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Ligand
Definition
Cross-References
Ligase
Definition
Cross-References
Light Travel Time Effect
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Light Variation
Light-Year
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Lightcurve
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Lightyear
Limb Darkening
Definition
Cross-References
Limb, Astronomical
Definition
Limestone
Limonite
Lindblad Resonance
Definition
Cross-References
Line Emission
Definition
Cross-References
Line of Sight
Definition
Line Profile
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Line Shape
Line Shielding
Definition
Cross-References
Linea, Lineae
Definition
Cross-References
Linear Energy Transfer
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
Line-of-Sight Velocity
Linewidth
Definition
Cross-References
Lingula, Lingulae
Definition
Cross-References
Linkage Map
Lipid
Lipid Bilayer
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Lipperhey (55 Cancri d)
Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Liquidus
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Liquidus Temperature
LISA
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Lithium Absorption
Definition
Cross-References
Lithopanspermia
Definition
History
Cross-References
Lithophile Elements
Definition
Cross-References
Lithosphere, Planetary
Definition
Cross-References
Lithotroph
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Living Stromatolites
LMT
Local Restframe
Local Standard of Rest
Synonyms
Definition
Lomagundi Carbon Isotope Excursion
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Lomagundi-Jatuli Carbon Isotope Excursion
Long Duration Exposure Facility
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Long Wavelength Astronomy
Lorenz-Mie-Debye Scattering
Lorenz-Mie-Debye Solution
Louis Pasteur
History
Cross-References
References
Further Readings
Low Mass Star
Definition
Cross-References
Lowell, Percival
History
Cross-References
Lowest Taxonomic Category
LUCA
Lucretius
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Luminosity
Definition
Cross-References
Luminosity-Temperature Diagram
Lunar Cataclysm
Lunar Geology
Lutetia
Definition
Ly α
Lyman Alpha
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
Lys
Lysine
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
M
Ma
Synonyms
Acronyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Macro Monte Carlo Models
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Macronutrient
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Macula, Maculae
Definition
Cross-References
Mafic and Felsic
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
MAG
Magma
Definition
Cross-References
Magma Oceans
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Formation of Magma Oceans
Evidence for Magma Oceans
Properties and Evolution of Magma Oceans
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Further Reading
Magmasphere
Magmatic Rock
Magnetic Anomaly
Definition
Cross-References
Magnetic Field
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Importance of Magnetic Fields for Planet Formation, Evolution, and their Habitability
Solar and Stellar Magnetic Fields
The Magnetism of Cool Stars
The Magnetism of Massive Stars
The Magnetic Field of the Earth
Star-Planet Interactions: The Role of Magnetic Fields
Future Directions
Further Reading
Magnetic Field Generation
Magnetic Field, Planetary
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Magnetic Fields and Planetary Systems Formation
Definition
Overview
Interstellar and Planetary Magnetic Fields
Magnetohydrodynamics
Magnetic Fields and Planet Formation
Magnetic Fields and Habitability
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Magnetic Fields and Star Formation
Definition
Overview
Magnetic Fields in Space
Magnetohydrodynamics
Magnetic Fields and Star Formation
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Magnetic Iron Ore
Magnetic Pole
Definition
Cross-References
Magnetism
Magnetite
Synonyms
Chemical Formula
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Magneto-fluid Dynamics
Magnetohydrodynamics
Synonyms
Acronyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Magnetosome
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Magnetosphere
Definition
History
Overview
Solar Wind Flow and Planetary Magnetic Fields
Magnetospheric Regions and Boundaries
Plasma Sources and Sinks
Plasma Circulation and Role of Ionosphere
Current Generators
Aurora
Concluding Remarks and Future Directions
Notations and Acronyms
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Magnetotactic Bacteria
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Magnitude
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
Magnitude, Absolute
Definition
Cross-References
Main Asteroid Belt
Main Sequence, Star
Definition
Cross-References
Mainbelt Comet
Mangalayaan
Manganese Oxidation
Chemical Formula
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Manganese Reduction
Chemical Formula
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Mantle
Definition
Cross-References
Mantle Plume, Planetary
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Mantle Redox State
Mantle Volatiles
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Mantle, Oxidation of
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Mare Plains
Mare, Maria
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Margulis, Lynn
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Mars
Definition
Overview
Crust and Mantle
Global Geology
Volcanism and Tectonics
Exogenic Surface Features
Atmosphere and Present-Day Climate
Water on Mars Today
Liquid Water on Mars Today
Climate Changes Due to Obliquity and Orbital Parameters Variations
Evidence for Transient Liquid Water on Mars in the Recent History: Outflow Channels, Gullies and Recurrent Slope Lineae
Early Mars: A Potential Habitable Planet More Than 3.5 Billion Years Ago
Life on Early Mars?
Life on Mars Today?
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Mars 2020
Definition
Cross-References
Mars Analogue Sites
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Mars Analogues
Definition
Mars Chamber
Mars Exploration Rovers
Mars Express
Definition
History
Overview
Key Research Findings
Cross-References
Mars Global Surveyor
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Mars Odyssey
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
Mars Orbiter Mission
Synonyms
Abbreviation
Definition
Cross-References
References
Mars Pathfinder
Definition
Cross-References
Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
Mars Sample Return Mission
Acronyms
Definition
History
Overview
Scientific Objectives
Program Layout
Planetary Protection and Contamination Control Issues
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Mars Science Laboratory
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Mars Stratigraphy
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Mars, Delta
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Mars, Erosion Rate
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Mars, Hydrated Minerals
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Mars, Paleo Ocean
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Mars, Paleoclimate
Definition
Overview
Introduction
Basic Methodology
Observational Evidence
Key Research Findings
Results of the Paleoclimatic Models
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Mars, Paleolakes
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Marsh
Martian Meteorites
Martian Moon Exploration
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Maser
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Mass Extinctions
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Late Ordovician Extinction
Late Devonian and the Permian-Triassic Extinction
KT Boundary
Precambrian Mass Extinctions
Basic Methodology
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Mass Loss Rate
Definition
Cross-References
Mass Spectrometry
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Mass Spectroscopy
Mass-Luminosity Relation
Definition
Cross-References
Master Equation Models
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Mated Bioburden
Definition
Cross-References
Materialism
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Mathilde
Definition
Mean Free Path
Definition
Cross-References
Mean Motion Resonance
Definition
Cross-References
MEarth
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Medicean Stars
Mediocrity Principle
MEED
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Mega-Annum
Megayear
Melanins
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Future Directions
Cross-References
References
Membrane
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Membrane Potential
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Mensa/Mensae
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
MER, Spirit, and Opportunity (Mars)
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Story Board of the Mission
Key Research Findings
Cross-References
Further Reading
Mercapto Radical
Mercaptomethane
Mercury
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Meridiani (Mars)
Definition
Cross-References
Mesophile
Definition
Cross-References
Mesosphere
Definition
Cross-References
Messenger
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Metabolic Diversity
Definition
Cross-References
Metabolic Networks
Metabolic Organization
Metabolic Zone
Metabolism
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Metabolism, Prebiotic
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
Metabolism, Secondary
Definition
Cross-References
Metagenome
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Metal Compounds in Circumstellar Envelopes
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Metallicity
Definition
Cross-References
Metamorphic Rock
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Metamorphism
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
Metasediment
Definition
Cross-References
Metasomatism
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Metasomatosis
Metatranscriptome
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Metavirome
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Meteor
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Meteorite, Allende
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Further Reading
Meteorite, Murchison
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Meteorite, Orgueil
Definition
Cross-References
Meteorites
Definition
History
Overview
Fall Phenomena
Meteorite Parent Bodies
Basic Methodology
The Petrological Classification of Meteorites
Primitive Meteorites and Their Components
Differentiated Meteorites
Key Research Findings
Meteorite Genetics
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Meteorites, History of
History
References and Further Reading
Meteoritics
Meteoroid
Definition
Cross-References
Meter-Size Catastrophe
Definition
Cross-References
Methanal
Methanamide
Methanamine
Methane
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Methane Oxidation
Definition
Overview
Organisms
Enzymology
Environments and Astrobiology
Summary
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Methanethioaldehyde
Methanethiol
Methanethiol (CH3SH)
Synonyms
Chemical Formula
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Methanimine (CH2NH)
Synonyms
Chemical Formula
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Methanobacteria
Methanogenesis
Acronyms
Definition
Chemical Formulas
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Methanogenic Archaea
Methanogens
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Methanoic Acid
Methanol
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Methanophiles
Methanotroph
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Methenamine
Methinophosphide
Methionine
Definition
Cross-References
Methoxy Radical (CH3O)
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Methoxyethane
Methoxymethane (IUPAC Name)
Methoxymethanol (CH3OCH2OH)
Chemical Formula
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Methyl Acetate (CH3COOCH3)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Methyl Alcohol
Methyl Aldehyde
Methyl Amine
Methyl Carbylamine
Methyl Chloride
Methyl Cyanide
Methyl Ethanoate
Methyl Ethyl Ether
Methyl Formate (HCOOCH3)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Methyl Isocyanate (CH3NCO)
Synonyms
Chemical Formula
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Methyl Mercaptan
Methyl Methanoate
Methyl Oxirane
Methyl Radical (CH3)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Methyl Triacetylene (CH3C6H)
Chemical Formula
Definition
History
Cross-References
Methylamine (CH3NH2)
Synonyms
Chemical Formula
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Methylene (CH2)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Methylene Oxide
Methylenimine
Methylethylene
Methylidyne (CH)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Methylidyne Cation (CH+)
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
MGS
Micas
Micelle
Definition
Cross-References
Micro-Monte-Carlo Models
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Microalgae
Microbe
Microbial Community Gene Expression Profile
Microbial Community RNAs
Microbial Ecology Evaluation Device
Microbial Mats
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Microbial Sediment Fixation
Microbialites
Microbially Induced Sediment Structures (MISS)
Microbially Induced Sedimentary Structures
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Microbiome of the International Space Station
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Microfossil Characterization
Microfossils
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Microfossils, Analytical Techniques
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Preparation
Transmitted Light Microscopy
Fluorescence (Spectro)microscopy and Confocal Laser-Scanning Microscopy
Raman Spectromicroscopy
FT-IR Spectromicroscopy
Scanning Electron Microscopy
Transmission Electron Microscopy
Elemental Compositions with EDX
Dynamic SIMS
Time-of-Flight SIMS
Pyrolysis GC-MS
X-ray Nanotomography
Synchrotron X-ray Fluorescence
XANES Spectromicroscopy
Key Research Findings
Biomineralization
Syngenicity of Organic Matter in Microfossils
Pseudofossils
Metals in Fossil Organic Matter
High-Resolution Morphological and Ultrastructural Information
Evidence for Selective Molecular Preservation
Constraints from C Isotope Ratios of Organic Matter
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
MicroFUN
μg
Micro-g
Microgravity
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Microkrystite
Microlensing Follow-Up Network
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Microlensing Observations in Astrophysics
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Micrometeorites
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Micronutrients
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Microorganism
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Microorganisms on Board the International Space Station
Microsome
Microtektite
Mid-Ocean Ridge
Acronyms (Optional)
Definition
Cross-References
Mid-Ocean Ridge Basalt
Mie Scattering
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Hypotheses
Limits
Extinction
Extinction Efficiency
Single Scattering Albedo
Phase Function
Polarization
Applications in Planetary Atmospheres
In Solar System
For Exoplanetary Atmospheres
Limitations
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Mie Solution
Mildly Reducing Atmosphere
Definition
Cross-References
Milky Way
Synonyms
Acronyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
Further Reading
Miller, Stanley
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Mimas
Definition
Cross-References
Mineral
Definition
Cross-References
Mineral Self-Assembling Structures
Mineral Vesicles
Synonyms
Definition
History
References
Minimal Autonomy
Minimal Gene-Set
Minimal Metabolism
Mini-Neptunes
Definition
Cross-References
Minor Planet
Miranda
Definition
Cross-References
Mirror Symmetric
Mitochondrion
Definition
Cross-References
Mixed Breccia
Mixtite
MKS (Russian Acronym)
MMX
MOA
Modelling Terrestrial Planetary Atmospheres
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Radiative Transfer
Planetary-Scale Fluid Dynamics
Volatile Cycles
Planetary Boundary Layer Modeling and Mesoscale Simulations
Atmospheric Chemistry
Upper Atmospheres
Biosphere-Atmosphere Couplings
Modeling of Formation, Long-Term Evolution, and Extreme Events
Key Research Findings
Anthropogenic Climate Change
Earth Climate History
Mars Volatile Cycling, CO2 Chemistry, and Early Evolution
Venus Climate and Sulfur Cycle
Titan and the Outer Solar System
Terrestrial Exoplanets
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Modern Stromatolites
Moho
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Mohorovicic Discontinuity
Moiety
Definition
Mole
Definition
Cross-References
Molecular Beacon
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Molecular Beacon Probe
Molecular Beams
Acronyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Molecular Biomarkers
Molecular Biosignatures
Molecular Clock
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Molecular Cloud
Definition
Cross-References
Molecular Depletion
Definition
Cross-References
Molecular Fossils
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References
Molecular Interactions
Molecular Line Cooling
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Molecular Line Map
Definition
Cross-References
Molecular Line Survey
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Key Research Findings
Basic Methodology
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Molecular Modeling
Molecular Nitrogen
Molecular Oxygen
Molecular Phylogenetics
Molecular Recognition
Definition
Cross-References
Molecular Sieves
Molecular Simulations
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Future Directions
Further Reading
References
Molecular Spectroscopy
Definition
Cross-References
References
Molecular Weight
Definition
Molecules in Space
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Molecules in Stellar Atmospheres
Molecules in the Interstellar Medium and in Circumstellar Envelopes
Molecules in Extragalactic Sources
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Monod´s Conception on the Origins of Life
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Monogenic Breccia
Monomictic Breccia
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Monophyletic
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Monosaccharide
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Mons, Montes
Definition
Cross-References
Montmorillonite
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Moodies Group
Definition
Overview
Structure
Lithologies and Facies
Life
Age
Tectonic Setting
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Moodies Group, Microbial Mats
Definition
Moon Treaty
Definition
Cross-References
References
Moon, Origin of
Definition
History
Overview
The Moon´s Present State
Age of the Moon
Classical Theories of Origin
Fission
Intact Capture
Coaccretion
The Giant Impact Hypothesis
Evolution of the Moon After Its Formation
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Moon, The
Definition
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
MORB
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Morphological Fossil
Most Recent Common Ancestor
Motility
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Mount McRae Shale
Definition
Cross-References
MRCA
mRNA Display
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Readings
MRO
MS
Mucin
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Mud Volcanism
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Multicellular Organisms
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Multiple Aperture Astronomy
Murchison
Mutagen
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Mutagenesis
Definition
Cross-References
Mutant
Definition
Cross-References
Mutation
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Mutual Neutralization
Definition
Cross-References
Mutualism
Mythology
Definition
N
N-Carbamoyl Amino Acid
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
N-Cyanoamine
N
N-(Pyrimidinyl)formamide
N2
N2H+
NADH, NADPH
Definition
History
Cross-References
Nadir
Definition
Cross-References
NAI
Definition
References and Further Reading
Nakhla
Definition
Cross-References
Nakhlites
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Nanoarchaeota
Definition
Cross-References
Nanodiamond
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Nanoparticle
Definition
Cross-References
NAP-Astrobio, Brazil
Acronyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
NASA
Definition
Cross-References
Reference
NASA Lunar Landing Mission
National Space Institute, Denmark
Natron
Synonyms
Chemical Formula
Definition
Cross-References
Natronite
Natural Polymer
Natural Selection
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
NCA
Near Infrared (Near IR)
Near-Earth Objects
Acronyms
Definition
Cross-References
Near-Field Cosmology
Needle Ironstone
Neptune
Definition
Overview
History of Observations
Composition and Structure
Dynamics and Internal Structure
The Magnetosphere of Neptune
Origin and Migration
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Nereid
Definition
Cross-References
Nernst Potential
Netherlands Space Office
Neutral Atmosphere
Definition
Cross-References
Neutral-Neutral Reaction
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Neutron Star
Definition
Cross-References
New Horizons
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
New Worlds Observer
Next-Generation Space Telescope
NGST
NH
NH2
NH2CH2CN
NH2CH2COOH
NH2CHO
NH2CONH2
Nice Model
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Nitrate Reduction
Synonyms
Acronyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Nitrates on Mars
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Nitrification
Definition
Cross-References
Nitrile
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Nitriloacetonitrile
Nitrogen
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Nitrogen Cycle, Biological
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
References and Further Reading
Nitrogen Fixation
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Nitrogen Gas
Nitrogen Hydride
Nitrogen Isotopes
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Nitrogen Isotopes in the Early Solar System
Nitrogen Isotopes on the Earth
Nitrogen Isotope Fractionation
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Nitrogen Sulfide (NS)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Nitro-sil
N-Methylglycine
Noachian
Definition
Cross-References
Noble Gases
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Noise
Definition
Non-aerobic
Non-coded Amino Acids
Non-enzymatic Rearrangement
Nonenzymatic Template-Directed Polymerization
Nonpolar Molecule
Nonprotein Amino Acids
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Nonprotein Amino Acids
Nonprotein Amino Acids in Cosmochemistry
Basic Methodology
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Non-proteinogenic Amino Acids
Non-superimposable Mirror Image Object
Nordic Network of Astrobiology
Definition
Cross-References
North American Shield
North Pole Dome (Pilbara, Western Australia)
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Nova
Definition
Cross-References
NS
NSO, The Netherlands
Synonyms
Definition
References and Further Reading
Nuclear Reaction
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Nuclear Stability
Definition
Cross-References
Nucleation of Dust Grains
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References
Nucleic Acid Base
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Nucleic Acid Duplication
Nucleic Acid Pool of Random Sequence
Nucleic Acids
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA)
Ribonucleic Acid (RNA)
Basic Methodology
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Nucleoid
Definition
Cross-References
Nucleon
Definition
Nucleoside
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Nucleoside 5′-Monophosphorimidazolide
Nucleoside Phosphoimidazolide
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Nucleosynthesis, Explosive
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Nucleosynthesis, Neutrino
Definition
Cross-References
Nucleosynthesis, Stellar
Definition
History
Overview
Quiescent Nucleosynthesis
H-Burning in Main Sequence Stars
He-Burning in Red Giants
Advanced Nuclear Burning in Massive Stars
Neutrino Losses
C, Ne, and O Burning
Si-Melting and Nuclear Statistical Equilibrium (NSE)
Explosive Nucleosynthesis in Supernovae
Explosive Nucleosynthesis in Core-Collapse Supernovae (CCSN)
Explosive Nucleosynthesis in Thermonuclear Supernovae (SNIa)
The Heavier Than Iron Nuclei
The s-Process
The r-Process
Summary
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Nucleotide
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
Nucleotide Oligomer
Nucleus
Definition
Cross-References
Nuclide
Definition
Cross-References
Nulling Interferometry
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
Further Reading
Numerical Ages of Rocks
Numerical Taxonomy
Nutrient Cycling
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Carbon
Nitrogen
Phosphorus
Trace Elements
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Nutrients
Nuvvuagittuq Greenstone Belt
Acronyms
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
The Geology of the Nuvvuagittuq Greenstone Belt
Geochronology of the Nuvvuagittuq Greenstone Belt
Significance for Early Earth Environments
Key Research Findings
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Nuvvuagittuq Supracrustal Belt
O
O/OREOS
O/OREOS Nanosatellite
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
References and Further Reading
O/OREOS Satellite
O2
OB Association
Definition
Cross-References
Obduction
Definition
Cross-References
Oberon
Definition
Cross-References
Obliquity and Obliquity Variations
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Occultation
Definition
Cross-References
Ocean
Ocean Planet
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Oceanic Crust
Definition
Cross-References
Oceans, Chemical Evolution of
Definition
Overview
Ocean Chemistry: The Result of Complex Interactions in the Earth System
Halite: The Main Ingredient of Seawater´ Salinity
Fluid Inclusions in Chemical Sediments and Ocean Chemistry
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References
Further Readings
Oceans, Origin of
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Oceanus Borealis
Oceanus, Oceani
Definition
Cross-References
Odin
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
OGLE
OGLE-2005-BLG-390Lb
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
OGLE-2006-BLG-109Lb,c
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
OH
OH+
Oligarchic Growth
Definition
Cross-References
Oligomer
Definition
Cross-References
Oligomerization
Definition
Cross-References
Oligonucleotide
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Oligonucleotide Library
Oligopeptide
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Olivine
Synonyms
Chemical Formula
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Olympus Mons
Definition
Cross-References
`Omics Technologies
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Onverwacht Group
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Oort Cloud
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Opacity
Definition
Cross-References
Opaline Silica on Mars
Definition
Cross-References
Oparin´s Conception of Origins of Life
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Open Cluster
Definition
Cross-References
Operational Taxonomic Unit
Operon
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Ophiolite
Definition
Cross-References
Optical Depth
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Optical Gravitational Lensing Experiment
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Optical Rotatory Power
Optical Thickness
Orbit
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Applications
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Orbital Period
Definition
Cross-References
Orbital Resonance
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
OREx
O-REx
Organelle
Definition
Cross-References
Organic Cyanide
Organic Dust, Influence on the Origin of Life
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Organic Dust, Synthesis by Stars
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Organic Grains
Organic Material Inventory
Definition
Cross-References
Organic Molecule
Definition
Cross-References
Organic Refractory Matter
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Organic Solid Particles
Organicism
Organometallic
Definition
Cross-References
Origin of Life
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Panspermia: Past and Present
The Origin of Life: A Question Without an Answer?
Phylogenomics and Extant Metabolism Do Not Explain the Origin of Life
From the Primitive Soup to the RNA World
A Modern Scientific Battlefield
Life as an Emergent Complex System
Conclusions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Origins of Life, History of
Introduction
The Birth of the Evolutive Abiogenesis Theories
Between the Two Wars: The Period of the Development of Hypothesis
The Development of Prebiotic Chemistry
Conclusion
Cross-References
References and Further Readings
ORM
Ornithine
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Orpheus
Ortholog
Orthologous Gene
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Orthophosphate
OSIRIS-REx
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Osmolite
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Osmolyte
Osmotic Pressure
Definition
Cross-References
OTU
`Oumuamua
Definition
Overview
References and Further Reading
Our Galaxy
Outer Membrane
Definition
Cross-References
Outer Space Treaty
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Outflow Channels
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Outgassing
Oxalic Acid Dinitrile
Oxalonitrile
Oxalyl Cyanide
1,3-Oxazolidine-2,5-dione
Oxic
Definition
Oxic Sediments
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Oxidant
Oxidation
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Oxidation in Terms of Electron Transfer
Oxidation in Terms of Hydrogen Transfer
Oxidation in Terms of Oxygen Transfer
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Oxidative Agent
Oxidative Phosphorylation
Oxidizing Atmosphere
Definition
Cross-References
Oxirane
Oxyatmoversion
Oxygen (Molecule)
Oxygen Fugacity
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
Oxygen Isotopes
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Oxygen Minimum Zone
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Oxygen Respiration
Oxygen, Atomic
Definition
Cross-References
Oxygenase
Definition
Cross-References
Oxygenation of the Earth´s Atmosphere
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
The O2 Balance Sheet: Gains and Losses
Evidence for Earth´s Oxygenation
Evidence for the Great Oxidation Event (GOE)
Evidence for a Neoproterozoic ``Second Rise´´ in Oxygen
When Did Oxygenic Photosynthesis Evolve?
Theories for Oxygenation
Conclusion and Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Oxygenic Photosynthesis
Definition
Chemical Formula
Acronyms
Overview
Mechanics
Evolution
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Oxygenic Phototrophic Bacteria
Oxyphotobacteria
Ozone
Definition
Cross-References
Ozone Layer
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
P
P-P Chains
Definition
Cross-References
p-RNA
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
PAH
PAH Hypothesis
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Beyond the PAH Hypothesis
The grandPAH Hypothesis
PANHs
Mixed Aromatic-aliphatic Organic Nanoparticles (MAONs)
Photochemical Processing of PAHs
Future Directions
Cross-References
References
Paleomagnetism
Definition
Cross-References
Paleoproterozoic Carbon Isotope Excursion
Paleoproterozoic Ice Ages
Paleoproterozoic Snowball Earth
Paleosols
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Pallas
Definition
History
Cross-References
Palus, Paludes
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Pangea
Definition
History
Cross-References
Panglacial
Panorama Formation
Panspermia
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Paraformaldehyde
Parallax
Definition
Cross-References
Paralog
Paralogous Gene
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Parameterization of Spectral Data
Parametric Release
Definition
Cross-References
Parent Body
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Parent Molecule (Ion, Species)
Parent Molecule, Comet
Definition
Cross-References
Parity Nonconservative Energy Difference
Parity Violation Energy Difference
Parker Solar Probe
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Parsec
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Partial Antigen
Partitioning
Pasteurization
Definition
Cross-References
Patera, Paterae
Definition
Cross-References
pc
PCR
PDR
Pentopyranosyl-RNA
Peptide
Peptide Nucleic Acids
Peptidoglycan
Definition
Cross-References
Perchlorates on Mars
Definition
Cross-References
References
Perennial Heat Source
Definition
Perennially Frozen Ground
Periapsis
Periastron
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Pericenter
Peridot
Peridotite
Definition
Cross-References
Period
Definition
Cross-References
Period (Half-Life Period)
Periphyton
Periplasm
Definition
Cross-References
Permafrost
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Permeability
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Peroxisome
Definition
Cross-References
Perseverance
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References
Petrifaction
PFS
pH
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Phase Transition
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Phase, Orbital
Definition
Cross-References
Phenetics
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Phenotype
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Phenyl Cyanide
Phenylalanine
Definition
Cross-References
Philae Lander
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
Phobos
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Phobos Soil
Phobos-Grunt
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Phoebe
Definition
Cross-References
Phoenix
Definition
Phosphaethyne (HCP)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Phosphates
Definition
Cross-References
Phosphates on Mars
Definition
Cross-References
Phosphine
Synonyms
Definition
Phosphite
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Phosphonate
Phosphoric Acid
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Phosphorus Chemistry
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Phosphorus Hydride
Phosphorus Monoxide (PO)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Photoattachment
Photoautotroph
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Photobiology
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Photochemical Hazes
Definition
Overview
Photochemical Hazes in the Solar System
Earth
Venus
Titan
Pluto
Giant Planets
Photochemical Hazes on Exoplanets
Astrobiological Interest
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Photochemistry
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Future Directions
Cross-References
Acknowledgment
References
Photochemistry, Atmospheric
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Photodesorption
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Photodestruction
Photodetachment
Definition
Cross-References
Photodissociation
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Photodissociation Region
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Structure
Heating
Cooling
Chemistry
Formation and Destruction of H2
Formation and Destruction of CO
Electron Abundance
Model Example
Observations
Future Directions
Turbulence
XDRs
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Photoevaporation
Photoevaporation of Protoplanetary Disks
Definition
Cross-References
Photoferrotrophy
Synonyms
Chemical Formula
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Photoionization
Definition
Photolysis
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Photon
Definition
Cross-References
Photon Dominated Region
Photosphere
Definition
Cross-References
Photosputtering
Photosynthesis
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Photosynthetic Eukaryotes
Photosynthetic Organism
Photosynthetic Pigments
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Phototroph
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Phyllosilicates, Extraterrestrial
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Phylogenetic Tree
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Phylogenetics
Phylogeny
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Phylotype
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Phylum
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
Physical Adsorption
Physicalism
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Physisorption
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Phytoplankton
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Evolutionary History
Diversity
Phytoplankton Functional Groupings and Their Biogeography
Cell Size
Cyanobacteria
Picoeukaryotes
Calcifying Coccolithophores
Silicifying Phytoplankton
Dinoflagellates
Biogeochemical and Ecological Significance of the Phytoplankton
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
pI
Piezophile
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Pigment Molecules
Pilbara
Pilbara Craton
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Pili
Definition
Cross-References
Pillars
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Pillow Lava
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Pioneer F for Pioneer 11
Pioneer G for Pioneer 10
Pioneer Spacecraft
Synonyms
Definition
References and Further Reading
α Piscis Austrinus b
PIXE
Synonyms
Definition
Planet
Definition
Cross-References
Planet Characterization: Emitted and Reflected Light
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Planet Characterization: High-Resolution Spectroscopy
Synonyms
Acronyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Planet Characterization: Transmitted
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Planet Detection: Eclipse Timing Variation
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Planet Detection: Transit Timing Variation
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Planet Formation
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Giant Planet Formation
Terrestrial Planet Formation
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Planet V Hypothesis
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Planetary
Planetary and Space Simulation Facilities
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Planetary Chronostratigraphy
Planetary Core
Planetary Debris Disks
Planetary Ecosynthesis
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Planetary Embryo
Definition
Cross-References
Planetary Evolution
Definition
Overview
From Motion to Evolution
Initial Conditions
Energy Sources
Internal Activity
Atmospheric Evolution
Cross-References
Planetary Formation
Planetary Mapping
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Planetary Migration
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Migration Mechanism
Gas-Driven Migration
Type I Gas-Driven Migration
Type II Gas-Driven Migration
Migration Due to Aerodynamic Drag
Planetesimal-Driven Migration
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Planetary Nebula
Definition
Cross-References
Planetary Protection
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Planetary Protection Category
Definition
Planetary Quarantine
Planetary Rings
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Planetary Surface Ages
Planetary Theories and Cosmology, Islamic Theories
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
PLAnetary Transits and Oscillations of Stars
Planetesimals
Definition
Cross-References
Planet-Forming Disk
Planetoid
Planets in Binary Star Systems
Definition
References
Planitia
Definition
Cross-References
Planck, Max
History
Cross-References
Plankton
Definition
Cross-References
Planum
Definition
Cross-References
Plasma
Definition
Cross-References
Plasma Chemistry, Laboratory
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Plasma Membrane
Plasma, High-Energy Density in Laboratory
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Plasmid
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Plate Accretion
Plate Tectonics
Definition
History
The Theory of the Continental Drift
The Birth of the Modern Plate Tectonics
Basic Methodology
Seismology
Paleomagnetism
Tectonic and Paleobiogeographic Reconstructions
Structure of Lithospheric Plates
Plate Boundaries and Hot Spots
Divergent Boundaries
Convergent Boundaries
Transform Boundaries
Ophiolites
Hot Spots
Driving Forces of Plate Tectonics
Frictional Forces
Gravitational Forces
Crustal Growth and Continental Construction
Mantle Convection
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Plate Tectonics, History of
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Plate, Lithospheric
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Platinum Group Elements
Acronyms
Definition
Cross-References
PLATO 2.0 Satellite
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Objectives
Exoplanets and Asteroseismology
PLATO 2.0 and Stellar Physics
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Plenum Formarum
Ploidy
Definition
Cross-References
Plug-Flow Reactor
Plume
Definition
Cross-References
Plurality of Worlds
Cross-References
Pluricellular Organisms
Pluto
Definition
History
Overview
Mass, Size, and Internal Structure
Orbital and Spin Parameters
Orbit
Obliquity and Rotation
Satellite System
Surface
Pre-New Horizons Knowledge
Surface Appearance and Geology
Surface Composition
Atmosphere
Atmospheric Composition
Atmospheric Pressure
Atmospheric Haze
Atmospheric Temperatures
Atmospheric Escape
Climatic Evolution
Origin and Relation to Other Kuiper Belt Objects
Cross-References
Further Reading
PNA
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
PO
Polar Axis
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Polar Caps (Mars)
Definition
Cross-References
Polar Layered Deposits (Mars)
Definition
Cross-References
Polar Molecule
Definition
Cross-References
Polar Motion
Polar Shift
Polarized Electron
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Polarized Light and Homochirality
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References
Polycistronic Transcript
Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Structure
Basic Methodology
Infrared Spectroscopy of PAHs
The Unidentified Infrared (UIR) Bands
The UIR Bands and PAHs
Electronic Transitions of PAHs
Rotational Spectroscopy
PAHs in the Solar System
Key Research Findings
Characteristics of the Astronomical PAH Family
Distribution and Abundance
Charge State
Chemical Composition
Size
Molecular (Edge) Structure
Astronomical Observations Versus PAH Databases
The PAH Life Cycle
The Role of PAHs in Astronomical Environments
PAH Chemistry
PAH Physics
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Polydeoxyribonucleic Acid
Polydeoxyribonucleotide
Polygenetic Breccia
Polyhedral Bodies
Polylithologic Breccia
Polymannuronic Acid
Polymer
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Polymerase Chain Reaction
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Polymict Breccia
Polymictic Breccia
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Polynucleotide
Definition
Cross-References
Polyoxymethylene
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References
Polypeptide
Definition
Cross-References
Polyribonucleotide
Polysaccharide
Definition
Cross-References
POM
Poorly Oxygenated
Population Genome
Porphyrin
Definition
History
Cross-References
Porpoise Cove Greenstone Belt
Positional Astronomy
Postimpact Plume
Cross-References
Power-Law Networks
Poynting-Robertson Drag
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
pppA
Prasad-Tarafdar Mechanism
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Pre-main-sequence Star
Definition
Cross-References
Prebiotic Chemistry
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Prebiotic Phosphorylation
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Prebiotic Photosynthesis
Prebiotic Soup
Prebiotic Soup Hypothesis
Precambrian
Definition
Cross-References
Precambrian Oceans, Temperature of
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cherts: Surviving Witnesses of Early Oceans
Measuring the Temperature of the Early Oceans
Measuring the Silicon Isotope Composition of the Early Oceans
Robustness and Limits of the Secular Oceanic Temperature Evolution Model
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Precession
Definition
Cross-References
Precursor
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Predissociation
Definition
Cross-References
Pre-planetary Nebulae
Primary Atmosphere
Primary Eclipse
Primary Kingdom
Primary Producer
Primary Production
Primer
Definition
Cross-References
Primitive Atmosphere
Primitive Broth
Primitive Mantle
Primitive RNA Catalysis
Primordial Heat
Definition
Cross-References
Primordial Nucleosynthesis
Primordial Soup
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
A Darwinian Warm Little Pond
Defining the Soup
Was There a Primitive Soup?
The Prebiotic Broth: A Risky Metaphor?
Conclusions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Principle of Plenitude
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Prion
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Priscoan
Privatization of Space
Pro
Probing Lensing Anomalies Network
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Prokaryote
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Prokaryotes, Origin of
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Proline
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Propanal
Propanenitrile (IUPAC Name)
Propanone
1, 2, 3-Propantriol
Propene
2-Propenenitrile (IUPAC Name)
Proper Motion
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Propionaldehyde
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Propionitrile
Proplyd
Propyl Cyanide (C3H7CN)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Propylene (CH3CHCH2)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Propylene Oxide (CH3CHCH2O)
Synonyms
Chemical Formula
Definition
Structure
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Propynyl Radical
Propynylidyne (C3H)
Synonyms
Chemical Formula
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Propynylidynium (C3H+)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References
Propynylidynium, l-C3H+
Protein
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Protein Synthesis
Proteinoid Microsphere
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Protein-Protein Interaction Networks
Proteins, Primary Structure
Definition
Cross-References
Proteins, Quaternary Structure
Definition
Cross-References
Proteins, Secondary Structure
Definition
Cross-References
Proteins, Tertiary Structure
Definition
Cross-References
Proteobacteria
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Proteome, Proteomics
Definition
Cross-References
Proterozoic Eon
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Protists
Definition
Cross-References
Protists with Chloroplasts
Protium
Protobinary Star
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Protocell
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Protocell Division
Proton Irradiation
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Proton Motive Force
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References
Proton Pump
Definition
Cross-References
Proton Transfer
Definition
Protonated Cyanodiacetylene
Protonated Tricarbon Monoxide
Proton-Induced X-ray Emission
Protoplanetary Disk
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Observational Diagnostics
Spectral Energy Distribution
Imaging
Key Research Findings
Disk Incidence and Lifetime
Composition and Mass
Dust Grain Growth
Structure
Kinematics
Formation and Evolution
Planet Formation
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Further Reading
Protoplanetary Disk Dead Zone
Definition
Cross-References
Protoplanetary Disk Instability
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Protoplanetary Disk Midplane
Definition
Cross-References
Protoplanetary Disk of Second Generation
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Protoplanetary Disk, Chemistry
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
(Sub)millimeter Observations
Infrared Observations
Key Research Findings
Outer Disk: (Sub)millimeter and Far-Infrared Observations
Inner Disk: Infrared Spectroscopy
Theoretical Picture of Chemical Structure of a Disk
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Protoplanetary Nebula
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Protoplasmic Theory of Life
Definition
Cross-References
Protoplast
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Protosolar Nebula, Minimum Mass
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Protostars
Definition
Overview
Stellar Life Cycle
Parent Clouds
Inside-Out Collapse
Main Accretion Phase
Deuterium Fusion
Disk Formation
Massive Protostars
End of Infall
Observational Prospects
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Protostellar Envelope
Definition
Cross-References
Protosun Composition
Definition
Cross-References
Proxima-b
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Pseudofossil
Definition
Cross-References
16 Psyche
Psyche
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
Psychrophile
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Pulsar
Definition
Cross-References
Pulsar Planets
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Purine Bases
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
1H-purine-2,6-dione
PVED
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Pyranose
Definition
Cross-References
Pyranosyl-RNA
Pyrimidine Base
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Pyrite
Synonyms
Chemical Formula
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Pyroclastics (in Volcanology)
Pyrolysis
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Pyrolysis Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry
Pyrolysis GC/MS
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Pyrometer
Pyrophosphate
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Pyrrolidine-2-carboxylic Acid
Pyruvate
Definition
Cross-References
Q
Q (Orbital Parameter)
Definition
Cross-References
Q (Tidal Quality Factor)
Definition
Q (Toomre Parameter)
Definition
Cross-References
Q* (Specific Energy to Destroy an Object)
Definition
Cross-References
QCC
Quaoar
Definition
Cross-References
Quarantine
Definition
Cross-References
Reference and Further Reading
Quartz
Chemical Formula
Definition
Cross-References
Quasispecies
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Quenched Carbonaceous Composite
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References
Quencher
Definition
Cross-References
Quenching
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Quorum Sensing
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
R
R-Process
Definition
Cross-References
Ross-128b
Definition
Cross-References
References
R40
RAC, Russia
Synonyms
Definition
Racemic Mixture
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Racemization
Definition
Cross-References
Radial Drift
Definition
Cross-References
Radial Velocity
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Radial-Velocity Planets
Definition
History
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Radiation
Radiation Biology
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Radiation Chemistry
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Future Directions
Cross-References
Acknowledgment
References and Further Reading
Radiation Dose
Definition
Cross-References
Radiation Interactions with Living Matter
Radiation Pressure
Definition
Cross-References
Radiative Attachment
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Radiative Forcing
Definition
Cross-References
Radiative Processes
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Radiative Recombination
Radiative Transfer
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Radiative Transfer (Atmospheres)
Definition
Overview
General Concepts
Spectral Radiance
Spectral Flux Density
Radiative Processes
Emission
Blackbody
Brightness Temperature
Wien´s Law
Stefan-Boltzmann Law
Kirchhoff´s Law of Thermal Radiation
Beer-Bougher-Lambert Law
Optical Depth and Optical Thickness
Radiative Transfer Equation Without Scattering
Formulation
Formal Solution
Absorption and Spectroscopy
Line Frequencies
Line Shapes
Continuum Opacity
Scattering
Single Scattering Albedo ϖ0
Phase Function P
Asymmetry Parameter g
Source Term Expression Including Scattering
Common Scattering Regimes
Polarization
Stokes Formalism
Basic Methodology
Observational Geometries
Angles
Typology of Observations
Plane-Parallel Approximation
1D Spherical and Pseudo-spherical Geometry
Solving Methods and Approximations
Monte Carlo Methods
Advantages
Drawbacks
N-th Order Scattering Approximations
N-Stream Approximations
Doubling-Adding Method
δ-Eddington Approximation
k-Correlated Methods
Key Research Findings
Applications
Near-Nadir Thermal Sounding
Temperature Sounding
Composition Sounding
Near-Nadir Scattered Light
Optically Thin Atmospheres
Optically Thick Atmospheres
Limb Observations
Opacity Amplification
Inhomogeneous Atmospheres
Refractivity Measurements
Radiative Balance
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Radical
Synonyms
Definition
Radio Astronomy
Synonyms
Acronyms
Definition
History
Overview
Specificity
Polarization and Propagation
Basic Methodology
Basics
Receivers
Antennas, Arrays, and Imagery
Key Research Findings
Large Instruments and Perspectives for Astrobiology
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Radio Astronomy and Radio Telescopes, History of
History
References and Further Reading
Radioactive Heating
Definition
Cross-References
Radioactivity
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Radiochemistry
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Radiochronology
Radiogenic Isotopes
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Geochronology
Model Ages
Key Research Findings
Dating Meteorites and the Beginning of Planet Formation
Accretion of the Earth and Segregation of Its Core
Age and Origin of the Moon
Origin of Earth´s Water and the Late Veneer
Early Differentiation and Mantle-Crust Evolution in the Earth
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Radiogenic Nuclides
Radiolysis
Definition
Cross-References
Radiometer
Radiometric Dating
Raman Scattering
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Raman Spectroscopy
Definition
History
Cross-References
Rare Earth Elements
Synonyms
Acronyms
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Igneous Petrology and the Archean Mantle
Sedimentary Petrology and Archean Sediments
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Rare Earth Metals
Rare Earth Oxides
Rare Gases
Rate Equation Models
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Rayleigh Scattering
Definition
Overview
Hypotheses
Cross Section
Phase Function
Polarization
Importance in Planetary Atmospheres
Clear Sky
Transit Spectroscopy
Albedo
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Reaction Network
Reaction Rate Coefficient
Definition
Cross-References
Reaction Vessels
Recombination
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Recurring Slope Lineae
Red Beds
Definition
Cross-References
Red Dwarf
Definition
Cross-References
Red Giant
Definition
Cross-References
Red Rectangle
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Reddening, Interstellar
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
REDESPA
Definition
Redox Potential
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Electrochemistry
Biology
Geochemistry
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Redox Zonation
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Redox Zone
Redshift
Definition
Cross-References
Reducing Agent
Definition
Cross-References
Reductant
Reduction
Definition
Overview
Reduction in Terms of Electron Transfer
Reduction in Terms of Hydrogen Transfer
Reduction in Terms of Oxygen Transfer
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Reduction Potential
Reductionism
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Reductive Pentose Phosphate Cycle
Reference Frame
Reflection Nebula
Definition
Cross-References
Reflectivity
Refractory Molecule
Definition
Cross-References
Refractory Organic Polymer
Definition
Cross-References
Regio
Definition
Cross-References
Regolith, Planetary
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Regolith, Terrestrial
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Relative Age Dating
Relative Ages of Rocks
Replication (Genetics)
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Replication Accuracy
Reproduction
Respiration
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Respiratory Chain
Restriction Endonuclease
Restriction Enzyme
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Rhea
Definition
Cross-References
Rheology, Planetary Interior
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Ribonucleic Acid
Ribonucleoside
Definition
Cross-References
Ribonucleotide
Definition
Cross-References
Ribopyranosyl Nucleic Acid
Ribose
Definition
Cross-References
Ribosome
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Ribosylaminoadenine
Ribosylaminocytosine
Ribosylaminoguanine
Ribosylaminouracil
Ribozyme
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Rice-Ramsperger-Kassel-Marcus
Synonyms
Definition
Right Ascension
Definition
Cross-References
Rille
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Rima
Rima, Rimae
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Rio Tinto
Chemical Formula
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Rise of Atmospheric Oxygen
Riverbeds
RNA
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Central Dogma of Molecular Biology
Messenger RNA (mRNA)
Transfer RNA (tRNA)
Ribosomal RNA (rRNA)
Catalytic and Enzymatic RNAs (Ribozymes)
Genomic RNA
RNA Interference (RNAi)
RNA World Hypothesis
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
RNA Enzyme
RNA Life
RNA Ligase
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
RNA Polymerase
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
RNA Replicase
RNA Replicase Ribozyme
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
RNA Self-Replication
RNA Splicing
RNA Synthesis
RNA World
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Searching for ``Molecular Fossils´´ in Modern Biology
In Vitro Evolution of RNA: Filling in the Gaps in the RNA ``Fossil Record´´
The Emergence of the RNA World: Prebiotic Chemistry and Pre-RNA Life
Key Research Findings
Translation Is Catalyzed by RNA
RNA Processing Is Catalyzed by RNA
Remnants of the RNA World in Modern Metabolism
RNA Functionality and Evolvability
In Vitro Evolution of RNA: Translation
In Vitro Evolution of RNA: Metabolism
In Vitro Evolution of RNA: Replication
Models of Evolution in Self-Replicating RNA Systems
RNA Replication Before Ribozymes
Emergence of Ribonucleotides
Life Before RNA
Future Directions
A Concerted Pathway to Nucleic Acid Polymers
Self-Replicating Darwinian Systems
The End of the RNA World and Its Legacy in Modern Biology
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Roche Limit
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Roche Radius
Rock
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Rocky Planet
Rodinia
Definition
Cross-References
Rosetta Spacecraft
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Roskosmos
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Rossiter-McLaughlin Effect
Definition
Overview
References
Further Reading
Rotation Planet
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Rotational Axis
Rotational Speed
Rotational Velocity
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Rotatory Power
Synonyms
Definition
RQ36
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
RRKM
Rubble rock
Rubisco
Definition
Cross-References
Runaway Gas Accretion
Definition
Cross-References
Runaway Growth
Definition
Cross-References
Rupes, Rupēs
Definition
Cross-References
Russian Astrobiology Center
Russian Federal Space Agency
Russian Space Research Institute
Rusting
Ryugu Asteroid
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
S
S-Process
Definition
Cross-References
S2H
Saccharide
Sagan Carl
History
Cross-References
Sagduction
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Saglek-Hebron Complex (Northern Labrador, Canada)
Acronyms (Optional)
Definition
History (Optional)
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Salt Tolerance
Salt-Loving Organisms
Sample Receiving Facility
Definition
Cross-References
Sample Safety Assessment Protocol
Definition
History
Cross-References
Sanukitoid
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Sarcosine
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Satellite or Moon
Definition
Cross-References
Saturn
Definition
Overview
Saturn as a Giant Planet
Early Exploration
Space Exploration
Dynamical Structure
Atmospheric Composition and Structure
Internal Structure
The Magnetosphere of Saturn
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Scala Naturae
Scale Height
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Scale-Free Networks
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Scattering
Definition
Cross-References
Schopf Locality
Science and Society Studies
Science Fiction
Science Studies
Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence
Seasonal Dark Flows
Secondary Eclipse
Secular Dynamics
Definition
Cross-References
Secular Resonance
Definition
Cross-References
Sedimentary Rock
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References
Further Reading
Sedimentary Volcanism
Sedna
Definition
Cross-References
$13-Selanyl-2-aminopropanoic Acid
Selection
Definition
Cross-References
Selenocysteine
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Selenology
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Self-Assembly
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Self-Assembly, Biological
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Self-Catalytic Activity
Self-Duplication
Self-Organization
Self-Producing Network
Self-Replication
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Key Research Findings
Self-Replication in Life
Self-Replication in Artificial Life
Kinetics of Self-Replication
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Self-Replication, Chemical
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Self-Reproduction
Self-Shielding
Self-Shielding Effects on Isotope Fractionation
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Semimajor Axis
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Semiminor Axis
Definition
Cross-References
Separation
Sequence
Definition
Cross-References
Sequence Analysis
Definition
Cross-References
Sequencing
Serine
Definition
Cross-References
Serpentine
Definition
Cross-References
Serpentinization
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Serpentinization (Mars)
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
SETI
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
References and Further Reading
SETI, History of
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Settlement
Sewer Gas
SFE, France
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
SgrB2
Definition
History
Overview
Structure
Chemistry
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Further Reading
SH
SH+
Shadow Zone
Shale
Definition
Cross-References
Shark Bay Microbialites
Shark Bay Thrombolites
Shark Bay, Stromatolites of
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Sheet Silica
Shepherding
Definition
Cross-References
Shergottites
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Shergotty
Definition
Cross-References
Shield
Definition
Cross-References
Shock Devolatilization
Shock Front
Shock Wave
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Shock, Interstellar
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Shocked Quartz
Definition
Cross-References
Shooting Star
Short-Lived Radionuclides
Siderite
Synonyms
Chemical Formula
Definition
Cross-References
Siderophile Elements
Definition
Cross-References
SiH4
Silane (SiH4)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References
Silica Metal Oxide Vesicles
Silicane
Silicate
Silicate Minerals
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Silicon Isotopes
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Future Directions
Cross-References
References
Further Reading
Silicon Monosulfide (SiS)
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Silicon Monoxide (SiO)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Silicon Nitride (SiN)
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References
Silicon Tetrahydride
Simple Sugar
Simulation Chambers
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
SiN
Single-Column Model
SiO
SIRTF
SiS
Skumanich Law
Definition
Cross-References
Slope Lineae, Recurrent
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Slope Streaks (Mars)
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Small Solar System Body
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
SNC Meteorites
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Snow Line
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Key Research Findings
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Snowball Earth
Synonyms
Definition
History
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Ongoing Research: Biological Consequences
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
SO
Social Studies of Science and Technology
Social Study of Science
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References
Société Française d´Exobiologie
Socioeconomic Benefits of Space
Synonyms
Acronyms
Overview
References and Further Reading
Socioeconomic Impact
Sociology of Science
Soda Lake
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Soil
Sol
Definition
Cross-References
Solar Constant
Synonyms
Definition
Solar Luminosity
Definition
Cross-References
Solar Mass
Definition
Solar Nebula
Definition
Cross-References
Solar Neighborhood
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Solar Particle Events
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Solar Radius
Definition
Solar System
Definition
Cross-References
Solar System, Inner
Definition
Cross-References
Solar System, Outer
Definition
Cross-References
Solar UV Radiation, Biological Effects
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Solar UV Rays
Solar Vicinity
Solid-State Greenhouse Effect
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Solidus
Definition
Cross-References
Sour Damp
South Indian Shield
Space Biology
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
Space Environment
Definition
Overview
Space Vacuum
Space Radiation
Solar Electromagnetic Radiation
Temperature of Bodies in Space
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Space Infrared Telescope Facility
Space Life Sciences
Space Studies Board
Space Tourism
Space Vacuum Effects
Definition
Cross-References
Space Voyages
Space Weathering
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Spall
Spallation
Spallation Reaction
Definition
Cross-References
Spallation Zone
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Spark Discharge
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Spathose Iron
SPE
Special Region (Mars)
Definition
Further Reading
Species
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Species (Prokaryote)
Definition
Overview
References and Further Reading
Specific Activity
Definition
Cross-References
Spectral Analysis
Spectral Classification of Embedded Stars
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Classification of Spectral Energy Distributions
Circumstellar Evolution
Bipolar Outflows and Gravitational Infall
Time Evolution and Approximate Timescales
Basic Methodology
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Spectral Line
Definition
Cross-References
Spectral Parameters, Solar System Planets
Synonyms
Acronyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Spectral Survey
Spectral Type
Definition
History
Cross-References
Spectral Veiling of Young Stars
Definition
Cross-References
Spectrofluorometry
Spectrometer
Definition
Cross-References
Spectroscopic Orbit
Definition
Cross-References
Spectroscopy
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Spectroscopy, Electronic (UV-Vis Astronomy)
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Spectroscopy, History of
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Spectroscopy, Rotational
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Spectroscopy, Vibrational
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
SPECULOOS
Acronyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Spheroplast
Spherules
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
SPICAV
Spin-Polarized Electron Beam
Spitzer Space Telescope
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Key Research Findings
Cross-References
Splicing
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Split
Spontaneous Generation, History of
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Spore
Definition
History
Overview
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Sporicide
Definition
Cross-References
Sporogenesis
Sporulation
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
SPR
Sputtering
Definition
Cross-References
Square Kilometre Array
Definition
History
Overview
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
SRB
SSB, USA
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
SS-Bond
SST
Stable Isotopes
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Applications
Stable Isotopes in Astrobiology
A Reliable Biosignature?
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Stagnant Lid Convection
Definition
Cross-References
Star Counts
Definition
Cross-References
Star Dust
Synonyms
History
Overview
Cross-References
References
Star Formation Rate
Acronyms
Definition
Cross-References
References
Star Formation, Feedback
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Star Formation, Observations
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Giant Molecular Clouds and Dense Cores
From Dense Cores to Stars
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Star Formation, Theory
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Star Formation, Triggering
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Further Reading
Stardust Mission
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Stars
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
Steins
Definition
History
Cross-References
Stellar Cluster
Definition
Cross-References
Stellar Evolution
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Hydrostatic Equilibrium
Energy Production
Energy Transfer
Key Research Findings
Basic Equations of Stellar Evolution
Simple Estimates of Stellar Properties and the Mass-Luminosity Relation
Evolution in Degenerate and Nondegenerate Conditions
Applications
Substellar Objects
Stars in a Mass Range of 0.08-0.5 M
Stars with an Initial Mass Between About 0.5 and 2.3 M
Stars with an Initial Mass Between About 2.3 and 10 M
Massive Stars
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Stellar Oscillation
Stellar Populations
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Stellar Pulsation
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Stellar Rotation
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Stellar Seismology
Stellar Winds
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Stellar Yield
Definition
Cross-References
Steranes, Rock Record
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Stereochemistry
Definition
Cross-References
Stereoisomers
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Stereomers
Steric Effect
Definition
Cross-References
Sterile
Definition
Cross-References
Sterility Assurance Level
Definition
Cross-References
Sterilization
Definition
Cross-References
Steroids
Sticking Coefficient
Definition
Cross-References
Stink Damp
Stirling Range Biota
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Stirling Range, Australia
Definition
Cross-References
Stochasticity
Stone
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Stopping Power
Stratigraphy
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Stratosphere
Definition
Cross-References
Stratosphere Biology
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Stratosphere Microbiology
Stratospheric Ozone
Strecker Synthesis
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Strelley Pool Formation
Chemical Formula
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Stromatolite
Cellularly Preserved Microfossils and Possible Microfossils
Pyrite and Kerogen
Future Directions
Cross-References
References
Further Reading
Stromatolites
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
What Is a Stromatolite?
Lithification of Recent Microbial Mats
Stromatolite Biogenicity Criteria
Mechanisms of Stromatolite Accretion
Sediment Trapping and Binding
Abiotic Chemical Precipitation
Biologically Induced Precipitation: Chemo- and Phototaxis
Brief Review of Stromatolites Through Time
The Oldest Stromatolites on Earth
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Structure and Chemistry of Microfossils
Subduction
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Subglacial Antarctic Lake Vostok
Subglacial Environments
Definition
Cross-References
Sublimation
Definition
Cross-References
Subliths
Submarine Hot Spring
Submillimeter Wave Astronomy Satellite
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Suboxic
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Suboxic Sediments
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Substellar Objects
Substrate
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Substratum
Subsurface Biota
Succinic Acid
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Sudbury Impact Structure
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Suevite
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Suevite Breccia
Suevitic Impact Breccia
Sulcus, Sulci
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Sulfaniumylidene
Sulfanyl
Sulfanylium
Sulfate Minerals
Definition
Cross-References
Sulfate Reducers
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Sulfate Reduction
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Sulfates, Extraterrestrial
Definition
Cross-References
Sulfide Oxidation
Synonyms
Chemical Formula
Acronyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Sulfidic Oceans
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Sulfur
Synonyms
Chemical Formula
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
Sulfur Chemistry
Chemical Formula
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Sulfur Cycle
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Sulfur Hydrides in the Interstellar Medium
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Sulfur Isotopes
Definition
Overview
The Geologic Record of δ34S
The Geologic Record of Δ33S
Sulfur Isotope Records of Martian Meteorites
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Sulfur Monoxide (SO)
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Sulphur
Sun (and Young Sun)
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
The Sun´s Internal Structure, Energy Production, and Composition
The Solar Photosphere and Sunspots
The Solar Chromosphere
The Solar Transition Region
The Solar Corona
Solar Rotation, the Solar Magnetic Dynamo, and Magnetic Cycles
Active Regions, Flares, and Coronal Mass Ejections
Solar Wind
The Sun in Time
The Evolution of the Solar Wind
The Rotation Rate of the Young Sun
The Evolution of the Solar Magnetic Field
The Evolution of Solar Activity and High-Energy Radiation
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Super-Earths
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Supercontinent
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Supercritical Fluid
Definition
Superkingdom
Supernova
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Supernova Remnant
Definition
History
Cross-References
Supernova Types
Definition
Cross-References
Superrotation
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Supersonic Beams, Supersonic Flow
Supersonic Jet Expansions
Synonyms
Acronyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References
Superthermal
Suprathermal
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Surface Gravity
Definition
Surface Plasmon Resonance
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Surfactant
Survival
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Svedberg Unit
Definition
Cross-References
Swamp Gas
SWAS
Swaziland Supergroup (outdated)
Symbiosis
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Synchronous Rotation
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Synchrotron Accelerator
Definition
Cross-References
Synchrotron Radiation
Definition
Cross-References
Syngenicity
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Synthetic and Hybrid Tissues
Definition
Overview
Synthetic Tissues
Printed Cells
Hybrid Tissues
The Origins of Multicellular Life
Manufacture in Microgravity
Experimental Science in Microgravity
Synthetic and Hybrid Tissues for Space Medicine
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Synthetic Biology
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Synthetic Cell Division
Synthetic Cells
Synthetic Organelles
System Solar Formation, Chronology of
Overview
Historical
The Concept of Radiometric Ages
The Planetary Significance of Radiometric Ages
The Age of the Solar System
The Chronology of Accretion
The Chronology of Planet-Forming Processes
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Systems Biology
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Systems Chemistry
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
T
T Association
Definition
Cross-References
T Tauri Star
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Table Mountain
TACK, Archaea
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Taconite
Taq Polymerase
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Taurus Molecular Cloud 1
Tautomer
Definition
Cross-References
Taxonomy
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Tectonic Plate
Tektite
Definition
Cross-References
Telescope
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Telluric Planet
Teloempathy
Definition
References
Template
Definition
Cross-References
Template-Directed Polymerization
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Template-Directed RNA Replication
Terminal Sterilization
Definition
Cross-References
Terpenoids
Terra, Terrae
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Terraforming
Terrestrial Analog
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Some Mars and Europa Terrestrial Analogues
Key Research Findings
Applications
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Terrestrial Planet
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
TESS
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Tessellation Automata
Tessera, Tesserae
Definition
Cross-References
Tethys
Definition
Cross-References
11,3,5,7-Tetraazaadamantane
1,3,5,7-Tetraazatricyclo[3.3.1.13,7]decane
Tharsis
Definition
Cross-References
The Galaxy
Theia
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Further Reading
Theoretical Biology
Thermal Copolymers of Amino Acids
Thermal Decomposition
Thermal Emission
Thermal Escape
Thermal Radio Jets
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Thermochemical Equilibrium
Thermodynamical Chemical Equilibrium
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
The Equilibrium Constant
Kinetic Considerations
Disequilibrium Processes
Key Research Findings
Giant Planets
Hot Jupiters and Brown Dwarfs
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Thermolysis
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Thermonatrite
Chemical Formula
Definition
Cross-References
Thermophile
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Thermosphere
Definition
Cross-References
Thiocyanate
Definition
Cross-References
Thioester
Definition
Cross-References
Thioformaldehyde (H2CS)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Thiol
Definition
Cross-References
Thiomethanol
Tholins
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Tholus
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Threonine
Definition
Cross-References
Thymine (T)
Definition
Cross-References
Tianwen-1
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
Further Reading
Tidal Locking
Tidal Migration
Tides, Archean
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
References and Further Reading
Tides, Planetary
Definition
Overview
Tidal Potential and Deformation of the Equipotential Surface
Tidal Love Numbers
Tidal Dissipation
Tidal Dissipation and Orbital and Rotational Evolution
Tides and Planetary Habitability
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Time Series
Definition
Tirez Lagoon System
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Titan
Synonyms
Definition
Introduction
An Astrobiological Environment
Titan´s Atmosphere and Surface Hosting a Complex Prebiotic Chemistry
Potential Habitat
Titan and the Earth
Similarities with the Early Earth
Titan and the Future of Our Planet
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Titan as an Earth Analog
Titan Bioastronomy
Titan Exobiology
Titan Organic Chemistry
Titan´s Atmosphere Module
Titan´s Atmosphere Probe
Titania
Definition
Cross-References
Titanium Dioxide
Titanium Dioxide (TiO2)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Titanium Monoxide
Titanium Monoxide (TiO)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Titius-Bode Law
Definition
Cross-References
TMC-1 Molecular Cloud
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
TNO
Todd, David
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Tonalite-Trondhjemite-Granodiorite
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Petrogenetic Models
Change in TTG Composition Through Time
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Total Solar Irradiance
4179 Toutatis
Toutatis
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
TPF/Darwin
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
Trace Elements
Definition
Cross-References
Trace Metals
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Trace Metals in Seawater
Trace Metals as Drivers of Ecosystem Change
Sedimentary Trace Metal Archives
Basic Methodology
Aqueous Samples
Geological Samples
Key Research Findings
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Trace of Life
Traces of Life in Basaltic Crust
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Transatlantic Exoplanet Survey
Trans-Neptunian Object
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Transcription
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Transcription Networks
Transcription Unit
Transduction
Definition
Cross-References
Transferase
Definition
Cross-References
Transformation
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Transit
Definition
Cross-References
Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite
Transiting Planets
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Transition Metals
Translation
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Translation Machinery
Translucent Interstellar Clouds
Definition
Cross-References
Transmission Spectroscopy
Transport, Biological
Definition
Cross-References
Transvaal Supergroup, South Africa
Definition
Cross-References
Trapped Fluids
TRAPPIST-1 System
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Constraints from Observations
Constraints from Simulations and Theory
Key Research Findings
Dynamics and Compositions
Atmospheres and Habitability
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Trapps
Synonyms
Acronyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Traps
Tree of Life
TrES
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Tricarboxylic Acid (TCA) Cycle
Trihydrogen Nitride
Triple Point
Definition
Cross-References
Tritium
Triton
Definition
Overview
Triton´s Surface and Internal Structure
Triton´s Atmosphere
Origin of Triton
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Trojans (Asteroids)
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
Trona
Synonyms
Chemical Formula
Definition
Cross-References
Tronite
Troposphere
Definition
Cross-References
True Polar Wander, Theory of
Synonyms
Acronyms
Definition
Cross-References
Tryptophan
Definition
Cross-References
TSI
TTG
Tumbiana Formation (Pilbara, Western Australia)
Definition
Cross-References
Turbidite
Definition
Cross-References
Turbulence (Planetary Disks)
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Turbulence, Interstellar
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Two-Body Reaction
Tyrosine
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
U
UAE´s Emirates Mars Mission
UCAMMs
UHPLC
UK Center for Astrobiology
Acronyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
UK Space Agency
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Ultrabasic Rocks
Ultra-carbonaceous Antarctic Micrometeorites
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
References and Further Reading
Ultracompact HII Regions
Acronyms
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Applications
Key Research Findings
Future Directions
Cross-References
References
Further Reading
Ultramafic Rocks
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Ultrasmall Bacteria, CPR, and Patescibacteria
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Ultrastructure
Definition
Cross-References
Ultraviolet Radiation
Cross-References
Ulysses Mission
Definition
Umbriel
Definition
Cross-References
Uncertainty
Unicellular Organisms
Definition
Cross-References
Unidentified Infrared Emission Bands
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Unimolecular Reaction
Definition
Cross-References
United Kingdom Space Agency
Universal Tree of Life
Upper Atmosphere Microbiology
Uracil (Ura)
Definition
Cross-References
Uraninite
Synonyms
Chemical Formula (optional)
Definition
Cross-References
Uranium Dioxide, Pitcheblende (former name)
Uranus
Definition
Overview
History of Observations
Composition and Structure
Internal Structure
The Magnetosphere of Uranus
Origin and Migration
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Urea
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References
Urey´s Conception of Origins of Life
History
Cross-References
Urotropine
Utahite
UV Absorption Bump
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
UV Climate
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
UV Exposure
UV Fluence
UV Radiation
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
UV Radiation Dose
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
UV Radiation, Biological Effects
Synonyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
UV Rays
V
Vacuum Ultraviolet
Definition
Cross-References
Vacuum Ultraviolet Light
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Valine
Definition
Cross-References
Valles Marineris
Definition
Cross-References
Valley
Valley Networks
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Vallis, Valles
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Value
Van der Waals Forces
Synonyms
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Variability, Stellar
Definition
Cross-References
Vastitas, Vastitates
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
VeGa
Vega 1 and 2 Spacecraft
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Venus
Definition
History
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Key Characteristics
Surface Geology
Plains
Plateau, ``Tesserae,´´ and Mountains
Rifts
Coronae
Impact Craters and Surface Age
Venus Crust and Mantle Dynamics
Venus Atmosphere and Climate
Present Atmospheric Composition
Thermal Structure and Greenhouse Effect
Atmospheric Circulation
Clouds and Photochemistry
Water, Climate Evolution, and Habitability
Observational Clues
The Classical Scenario of Venus Evolution
Astrobiology of Venus
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Venus Clouds
Definition
Cross-References
Venus Clouds, Potential for Life
Definition
Overview
Primitive Venus or Paleo-Venus
Habitable Area in the Clouds
Solar Flux and Cosmic Flux
Terrestrial Extremophiles
Earth-Like Life or New Life Forms Specific to Venus?
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Venus Express
Synonyms
Definition
History
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Venus Missions (History of)
History
Cross-References
References
VeRa
Vernadsky
History
Vernal Point
Definition
Cross-References
Very Large Telescope
Very Long Baseline Interferometry
Vesicle
Definition
Cross-References
Vesta
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
VEX
Viability
Viking
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
The Viking Landers
The Viking Orbiters
Key Research Findings
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Vinyl Cyanide (CH2CHCN)
Synonyms
Definition
History
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Viral Metagenome
Viral Particle
Virion
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Viroid
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Virology
Definition
Cross-References
VIRTIS
Virus
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Key Research Findings
History of Virology
Viruses Are Everywhere
Virus Classification Is Problematic
Applications
Future Directions
Are Viruses Alive?
Where Do Viruses Fit in the ``Tree of Life´´?
Unique Viruses in Extreme Environments
Antiquity of Viruses?
Viruses Relevance for Astrobiology
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
VIS
Viscosity
Definition
Cross-References
Viscous Stirring
Definition
Cross-References
Visible
Visible Light
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Vitalism
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References
Vitreous Carbon
VLBI
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
VLT
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
VMC
Volatile
Definition
Cross-References
Volcanic Mountain
Volcaniclastic Sediment
Definition
Cross-References
Volcano, Planetary
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Vortex, Vortices
Definition
Cross-References
Vostok, Subglacial Lake
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Life in Lake Vostok
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Voyager 1
Voyager 2
Voyager, Spacecraft
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
VY CMa
Definition
Cross-References
W
Warm Season Flows
Warrawoona Group
Definition
Cross-References
WASP
Acronyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Water
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Water Activity
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Water in the Solar System
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
The Formation Scenario of the Solar System
Water in Comets
Water in the Giant Planets
Water in the Rings and Outer Satellites
The Role of Water in the Evolution of Terrestrial Planets
Conclusions and Open Questions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Water in the Universe
Synonyms
Overview
Water as Ice and Gas
Deuterated Water, HDO
Water During the Formation of a Solar-Type Star and Associated Planetary System
Water in the Distant Universe
Basic Methodology
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Water Planet
Water World
Water, Delivery to Earth
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Source of Water and Heliocentric Migration of Objects
Behavior of Water on the Earth During Planetary Accretion
Elemental and Isotopic Constraints
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Water, Formation and Photodissociation
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Water, Related Interstellar Radicals and Ions
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Water, Solvent of Life
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
The Origin of Liquid Water on Earth
The Role of Water in Prebiotic Evolution
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Water, Vibrational and Rotational Transitions
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
H2O Observations from Ground-Based Observatories
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Further Reading
Watson-Crick Pairing
Definition
Cross-References
Wave Number
Definition
Cross-References
Wavelength
Definition
Weak Bonds
Definition
Cross-References
Weathering
Definition
Cross-References
Weathering Profile
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Weightlessness
White Dwarf
Synonyms
Acronyms
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Key Research Findings
Applications
Future Directions
Cross-References
References
Further Reading
White Smoker
Definition
Cross-References
Whole Community Transcripts
Wobble Hypothesis (Genetics)
Definition
History
Cross-References
Wobble Pair
Definition
Cross-References
Woese, Carl
X
X-Rays (Organic Synthesis)
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
X-Rays (Stellar)
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
XANES
Synonyms
Definition
Xanthine
Synonyms
Chemical Formula
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
XDR
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Xerophile
Definition
Cross-References
X-ray Absorption Near-Edge Structure
X-ray Dissociation Region
X-ray Dominated Region
Y
Yeast
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Yellowstone
Yellowstone Caldera
Yellowstone National Park, Natural Analogue Site
Synonyms
Acronyms
Definition
History
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Yinghuo-1
Definition
YY Orionis Star
Definition
Cross-References
Z
Z (Astrophysics)
Definition
Cross-References
Z-Value
Definition
Cross-References
Zenith
Definition
Cross-References
Zeolites
Synonyms
Definition
Cross-References
Zero Age Main Sequence
Definition
Cross-References
Zero-G
Zinc Isotopes
Definition
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Zircon
Synonyms
Definition
Overview
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Zirconium Silicate
Zodiacal Light
Definition
History
Overview
Basic Methodology
Introduction
Dust Properties, Orbits, and Sources
Astrobiological Implications, Back in Time and Away in Space
Key Research Findings
Source of the Zodiacal Light
Origin of Zodiacal Dust Particles
Astrobiological Significance
Future Directions
Cross-References
References and Further Reading
Zwitterion
Definition
Cross-References
Astrobiological Data and Chronological History of Life on Earth:
General Data
International System Units
Other Units
International System Prefixes
Fundamental Physical Constants
Mendeleev Periodic Table of Elements
Astronomical Data
Units and General Data
Comparative Planetology
Other Symbols and Abbreviations
Electromagnetic Spectrum
Molecules Detected in the Interstellar or Circumstellar Medium
Molecules Detected in Extragalactic Sources
Exoplanets
References and Further Reading
Geological Data
General Information
Decay Constants (λ)
Temperature Range of Magma Emplacement
The International Stratigraphic Chart
Geological Time Scale and Evolution of Life
Mineralogical Short Summary
Silicates
Nonsilicate Minerals
Rock Classification for Astrobiologists
Magmatic or Igneous Rocks
Place of Magma Crystallization
Chemistry of the Crystallizing Magma
Sedimentary Rocks
Metamorphic Rocks
Average Compositions of the Earth´s Geochemical Reservoirs
References and Further Reading
Chemical and Biological Data
Main Prebiotic Precursors of Biomolecules
Nucleic Bases
Nucleosides and Nucleotides
Genetically Encoded Amino Acids
Limits of Life
Chronological History of Life on Earth