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The field of planetary biology and chemical evolution draws together experts in astronomy, paleobiology, biochemistry, and space science who work together to understand the evolution of living systems.

This field has made exciting discoveries that shed light on how organic compounds came together to form self-replicating molecules—the origin of life.

This volume updates that progress and offers recommendations on research programs—including an ambitious effort centered on Mars—to advance the field over the next 10 to 15 years.

The book presents a wide range of data and research results on these and other issues:

  • The biogenic elements and their interaction in the interstellar clouds and in solar nebulae.
  • Early planetary environments and the conditions that lead to the origin of life.
  • The evolution of cellular and multicellular life.
  • The search for life outside the solar system.

This volume will become required reading for anyone involved in the search for life's beginnings—including exobiologists, geoscientists, planetary scientists, and U.S. space and science policymakers.

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Suggested Citation

National Research Council. 1990. The Search for Life's Origins: Progress and Future Directions in Planetary Biology and Chemical Evolution. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. https://doi.org/10.17226/1541.

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Publication Info

160 pages |  6 x 9 |  Paperback
ISBN: 978-0-309-04246-8
DOI: https://doi.org/10.17226/1541
Chapters skim
Front Matter i-xii
Executive Summary 1-15
1. Overview 16-20
2. The Cosmic History of the Biogenic Elements and Compounds 21-55
3. Early Planetary Environments: Implications for Chemical Evolution and the Origin of Life 56-77
4. The Origin of Life 78-90
5. The Evolution of Cellular and Multicellular Life 91-104
6. Search for Life Outside the Solar System 105-122
7. Major Research Recommendations 123-129
8. Space Science Program and Policy Issues 130-132
References 133-134
Glossary 135-138
Appendix 139-140
Index 141-148

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