NASA Astrobiology Institute (NAI)

Lunar Focus Group

NLSI/NAI Space Biology and Lunar Astrobiology Focus Group Charter

Context

Support of the permanent presence of humans at a base on the Moon requires that we achieve an in-depth understanding of a variety of biological issues, from the role of microbes in a lunar program to the conditions under which plants, animals and humans can survive and flourish in the harsh lunar environment. Our ability to predict and control complex biological systems and thereby engineer safe habitats will determine the practicality of establishing a sustainable lunar base for astronauts.

Because the moon provides a witness plate to the history of impacts as well as solar and cosmic radiation of the Earth/Moon system, the Moon also can provide information on environmental conditions relevant to the origin and evolution of life on Earth.

Charter

The NLSI/NAI Space Biology and Astrobiology Focus Group is responsible for

• Identifying and sharing relevant space biology and astrobiology research
   results
• Serving as a forum to provide programmatic input into NASA missions
• Fostering relevant interdisciplinary research collaborations

Approach

• Through an open forum with both national and international
  representatives and through regular discussion of relevant research in space
  biology and astrobiology, represent the lunar space biology and astrobiology
   communities
• Through interactions with NASA¹s LEAG and OSEWG, provide input into
  current and future NASA missions
• By means of an appropriately planned and attended workshop, identify the
  most pressing biological issues that affect our return to the Moon

Fill out the form below to add yourself to the Lunar Focus Group mailing list.