AST 120 - Life in the Universe

3 credit hours - Three hours of lecture weekly; one term.
This course meets the Biological and Physical Sciences General Education Requirement.

Explore the possibility that life exists elsewhere in the Universe. Study what astrobiologists mean by “life” and the nature and origin of life on Earth. Investigate the properties of worlds where life could thrive, how the properties of stars affect the habitability of planets, and the challenges associated with interstellar travel. Discuss the probability of communication with extraterrestrial intelligent life forms, and discuss the social and philosophical consequences of finding life, intelligent or simple, elsewhere in the Universe.

Prerequisite(s): Eligibility for ENG 101 /ENG 101A and eligibility for any general education math.

Note: This course does not satisfy curricular requirements for a laboratory science course. Typically offered at MC and OL; fall, spring, and summer terms.