Exploring one of science’s most exciting frontiers, Life in Space bridges astrophysics and biology to uncover the conditions that make life possible — on Earth and beyond. Designed for students and general readers alike, it introduces the emerging field of astrobiology through vivid explanations, real-world examples, and ethical reflections on humanity’s role in the cosmos. From the detection of habitable planets to the search for biosignatures and intelligent life, the book offers a captivating, comprehensive view of life’s place in the universe.
[Hebrew University of Jerusalem]– Life in Space: Astrobiology for Nonscientists invites readers on an accessible, interdisciplinary journey through one of science’s most captivating frontiers: the search for life beyond Earth. Co-authored by astrophysicist Dr. Amri Wandel and biologist Dr. Joseph Gale, both from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, the book blends the cosmic with the cellular, tracing how astronomical and biological forces intersect to create and sustain life.
Beyond exploring the mysteries of the universe, Life in Space answers two important educational needs. The first is to provide a comprehensive undergraduate textbook for teaching astrobiology to students of all backgrounds and levels and anyone intrigued by the prospects for extraterrestrial life but may lack the tools to assess their scientific significance.
The second is to serve as a clear and engaging introduction to science itself for anyone interested in how scientific reasoning works, from curious readers to policymakers who encounter science in their daily work. Through astrobiology, which draws on disciplines ranging from physics and astronomy to biology and medicine, the book offers an accessible gateway to understanding the scientific method.
Drawing on over two decades of teaching at the Hebrew University, the authors transform the complex science of astrobiology into a clear and engaging narrative for students and curious readers alike. From the chemistry of life’s origins and the detection of habitable planets to the ethical questions of space exploration, Life in Space spans the vastness of the cosmos and the intricacies of life on Earth.
Structured as an introductory undergraduate textbook, the volume offers readers a panoramic view of a field that unites astronomy, physics, chemistry, biology, and philosophy. Each chapter ends with concise take-home lessons and suggestions for further reading, encouraging critical thinking about both scientific discovery and humanity’s place in the universe.
“Understanding astrobiology means understanding ourselves,” the authors note. “The same cosmic and geological processes that made life possible on Earth may one day help us discover it elsewhere.”
Published by Springer Nature (2025), the book offers an up-to-date overview of the latest space missions, planetary discoveries, and biosignature research, while reflecting on how Earth’s own climate and environment continue to evolve.