Title An astrobiology strategy for the exploration of Mars / Committee on an Astrobiology Strategy for the Exploration of Mars ; Space Studies Board, Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences ; Board on Life Sciences, Division on Earth and Life Studies ; National Research Council of the National Academies

Published Washington, D.C. : National Academies Press, ©2007

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Description 1 online resource (xii, 118 pages) : illustrations (some color) Contents FrontMatter -- Preface -- Contents -- Executive Summary -- 1 Introduction -- 2 The Present State of KnowledgeAbout Mars and Possible Life -- 3 Biosignatures and Abiotic Chemistry -- 4 Characteristics of Sites for Astrobiological Investigation -- 5 Methodologies for Advancing Astrobiology -- 6 Astrobiological Assessment of Current Mars Mission Architecture -- 7 Planetary Protection for Mars Missions -- 8 Findings and Recommendations -- Appendixes -- A Martian Features Mentioned in Text -- B Glossary Summary Three recent developments have greatly increased interest in the search for life on Mars. The first is new information about the Martian environment including evidence of a watery past and the possibility of atmospheric methane. The second is the possibility of microbial viability on Mars. Finally, the Vision for Space Exploration initiative included an explicit directive to search for the evidence of life on Mars. These scientific and political developments led NASA to request the NRC's assistance in formulating an up-to-date integrated astrobiology strategy for Mars exploration. Among other topics, this report presents a review of current knowledge about possible life on Mars; an astrobiological assessment of current Mars missions; a review of Mars-mission planetary protection; and findings and recommendations. The report notes that the greatest increase in understanding of Mars will come from the collection and return to Earth of a well-chosen suite of Martian surface materials Bibliography Includes bibliographical references Notes Print version record Subject Planetary science TRAVEL. Planets -- Exploration Planetary science SUBJECT Mars (Planet) -- Exploration. http://id.loc.gov/authorities/subjects/sh85081553 Subject Mars (Planet) Form Electronic book Author National Research Council (U.S.). Committee on an Astrobiology Strategy for the Exploration of Mars. National Research Council (U.S.). Space Studies Board. National Research Council (U.S.). Board on Life Sciences. LC no. 2007280002 ISBN 9780309108522 0309108527 1280934662 9781280934667

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