Reasons Why Astrobiology May Be Too Risk Averse

Astrobiology, the study of the origins, evolution, distribution, and future of life in the universe, finds its expression in the late 19th-century masterpiece “Where Do We Come From? What Are We? Where Are We Going?” by French artist Paul Gauguin. Surprisingly, NASA has adopted this post-impressionist painting as the guiding principle for its astrobiology program.

Gauguin took risks in Tahiti to discover his true essence, just as astrobiology seeks to understand our origins and the existence of life beyond Earth in the academic realm.

However, the field of astrobiology may be too cautious when it comes to robotic space missions.

This question was posed to Wolf Geppert, astrochemist and chairman of the European Astrobiology Institute (EAI), at a recent scientific meeting on La Palma island. Geppert believes there is a tendency to be overly risk-averse in science compared to commerce, as it is difficult to place a monetary value on potential scientific gains.

Geppert emphasizes the difficulty of convincing the public to support high-risk science due to competing priorities like climate change and healthcare. This pressure on politicians and authorities leads to a risk aversion that hampers scientific advancements.

Nevertheless, space science contributes significantly to climate research.

Geppert, the chairman of EAI, which is primarily funded by European universities and scientific institutes since its inception in 1999, highlights downsizing in space missions as a recurring issue, particularly in astrobiology-related aspects. Funding constraints often force ambitious mission plans to be scaled back.

Additionally, Geppert notes the numerous space mission proposals that never receive funding, resulting in wasted time and effort in designing missions that never materialize.

Despite these challenges, astrobiology missions have historically led to serendipitous technological advancements on Earth. Geppert cites the example of mass spectrometers, which were miniaturized for space exploration and subsequently revolutionized analytical methods in fields like isotope dating and airport security.

What more can Europe do in the field of astrobiology?

Geppert believes that the EAI can play a vital role in fostering research, training, and public engagement in astrobiology. Given the diverse nature of the field, Geppert emphasizes the need for a collaborative approach involving multiple national research communities.

At the recent scientific meeting on La Palma, over 250 astrobiology researchers from across Europe gathered for presentations and informal discussions. Geppert highlights the interdisciplinary nature of astrobiology and the positive influence of early-career scientists who are accustomed to working across different fields.

As for answering Gauguin’s existential questions?

Geppert suggests that increased missions to different parts of our solar system and the development of advanced space telescopes capable of detecting biosignatures on distant planets are necessary steps. However, a full commitment from humanity is required to truly answer these fundamental questions.

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