Is Life In Outer Space Possible?

Purpose
Have you ever wondered how life on earth sprang up? Where does life
come from and what does it take to be alive? Recently, researchers have
synthesized ribose- the sugar involved in the backbone of RNA- in the
lab based on ice commonly found in space. Previously researchers had
synthesized pyrimidine bases cytosine, uracil and thymine; parts of the
DNA/RNA alphabet. While others have collected amino acids from
meteorites. Think about all the different components that need to work
to replicate DNA, create mRNA messages, and translate those messages
into proteins for the cell to use. In this post you will reflect on the
possibility that all these things have come together to create life
somewhere other than on earth.
Task
This week’s discussion involves 1 part. Be sure to fully answer the prompt in your post.
In this discussion, pick a side (yes or no) and answer the following question:
Do you think life in outer space is possible? If YES, what might it
look like? If NO, why do you think it is not possible? Please remember
to add a question to engage your classmates in the discussion. Please
use scientific/biological arguments only–this is not a
theological/spiritual discussion, and you will only receive credit for
using appropriate scientific arguments.
NOTE: In order to create discussion “threads” or a continual
discussion among groups of students, be sure to add a question at the
end of each post. Please remember reply to at least 2 peers.
Grading Criteria
Your understanding of the requirements for life to occur and your
thoughts about the likelihood of it occurring somewhere other than on
earth.
Your peer responses are substantive and thoughtful and advance the
discussion by introducing new insights or perspectives, and/or
significantly deepening or broadening the conversation with questions.
Your use of language: your writing should be clear, well-organized, and free from spelling and grammar errors.

Last Completed Projects