Physics 202: Introduction to Astronomy – Lecture 24

Carsten Denker

Physics DepartmentCenter for Solar–Terrestrial

Research

May 2, 2006 Center for Solar-Terrestrial Research

May 2, 2006 Center for Solar-Terrestrial Research

Cosmic Evolution

May 2, 2006 Center for Solar-Terrestrial Research

Life in the Universe Life in the universe Life in the solar

system Life on Earth Miller-Urey

experiment Alternative

biochemistries Interstellar origin Diversity and culture

Intelligent life? Drake equation Search for

extraterrestrial intelligence

The “Water Hole”

May 2, 2006 Center for Solar-Terrestrial Research

Chemical Evolution

May 2, 2006 Center for Solar-Terrestrial Research

Drake Equation

R*: Rate of star formation fp: Fraction of stars with

planetary systems ne: Number of habitable planets

per planetary system fl: Fraction of planets on which

life arises fi: Fraction of life-bearing planets on which

intelligence arises fc: Fraction of planets on which intelligent life

develops and uses technology L: Average lifetime of a technological civilization

p e l i cN R f n f f f L

May 2, 2006 Center for Solar-Terrestrial Research

Habitable Zones

May 2, 2006 Center for Solar-Terrestrial Research

Anybody out there?