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Searching for extraterrestrial life advances terrestrial sustainability
Alta E G Howells1,2,3, Catherine G Fontana4,5, Sabrina Elkassas6,7
1Department of Geological Sciences, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA. alta.howells@colorado.edu.
Nature Communications
|December 24, 2025
Summary
Astrobiology can help solve Earth
Area of Science:
- Astrobiology and Applied Science Integration
Background:
- Traditionally, astrobiology focuses on the origin of life on Earth and extraterrestrial life.
- Astrobiology offers valuable tools and insights applicable to terrestrial challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To advocate for integrating astrobiological research with applied sciences.
- To highlight astrobiology's potential to address critical planetary issues.
Main Methods:
- Leveraging knowledge from Earth-based biological systems and study sites.
- Applying insights gained from studying planetary bodies in our solar system.
Main Results:
- Identified potential applications in carbon capture and low-carbon energy.
- Recognized utility in waste remediation and biotechnology development.
Conclusions:
- Astrobiology should evolve into a bidirectional science.
- This evolution will enable exploration of the cosmos and support sustainable life on Earth.
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