January 24-25, 2009
NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, CA

Astrobiologists, planetary scientists and astronomers joined together for a presentation on the latest information on our expanding understanding of the abodes of life on our planet and the prospects for the development of life elsewhere in our solar system and beyond. The objective of the conference was to tell the exciting tale of real-life exploration and new discovery in a way that will excite and inspire students. Discussion topics included defining astrobiology, the abodes of life, pre-biotic chemistry, Earth analogs of extraterrestrial environments and the search for extraterrestrial intelligence. In addition, other topics for discussion included life detection instruments as well as bio-signatures and protecting other planetary bodies from Earth contamination. Students and teachers from the remote village of Barrow, Alaska participated via video teleconference.

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