Survival of life on asteroids, comets and other small bodies

Area of Science:

• Astrobiology
• Planetary Science
• Radiation Biology

Background:

• Small celestial bodies in the solar system present extreme environmental challenges.
• Survival of life on these bodies is limited by sterilizing factors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the survivability of living organisms on smaller solar system bodies.
• To identify the primary sterilizing effects impacting potential extraterrestrial life.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of sterilizing effects: ionizing radiation, extreme vacuum, and thermal inactivation.
• Assessment of environmental protection within volatile-rich bodies.

Main Results:

• Ionizing radiation, vacuum, and thermal inactivation are significant lethal factors.
• Combined effects are more potent, especially on inner solar system bodies.
• Surface sterility is inevitable, extending to greater depths for bodies near the sun.

Conclusions:

• Survival of organisms on the surfaces of small bodies is highly improbable.
• Protected subsurface environments may offer theoretical possibilities for dormant life.
• Understanding these factors is crucial for astrobiological exploration.