Biology
Scientific paper
Nov 1979
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=1979jbis...32..419m&link_type=abstract
British Interplanetary Society, Journal (Interstellar Studies), vol. 32, Nov. 1979, p. 419-423.
Biology
3
Exobiology, Extrasolar Planets, Extraterrestrial Life, Interstellar Travel, Panspermia, Planetary Environments, Ecology, Payloads, Propagation, Solar Sails
Scientific paper
Advanced solar sails deployed at appropriate locations in heliocentric space will be capable of ejecting small (approximately 10 kg) payloads of moderately radiation-protected biological material from the solar system at 0.0001-0.001c. For deceleration at the target a low-technology device can be provided by silvering both sides of the interstellar sail and aiming directly at a solar-type star. The probability of capture by target planets will be enhanced by the dispersion of pansperms in a circular orbit intersecting the ecliptic plane in the target ecosphere. Biological criteria for interstellar panspermia selection include radiation resistance, and the microorganisms' nutritional requirements. Interstellar panspermia is proposed on the basis of the following ethical considerations: the moral obligation to insure the survival of the fundamental genetic heritage common to all living organisms; the desire to promote the evolutionary trend of the conquest of novel and more extensive habitats by living matter; and the pursuit of an intuitive drive to affect natural history on a universal scale. An ethical objection is the possibility of interference with indigenous biota. The chances for a destructive interference may be minimized by the proper selection of pansperms.
Matloff Gregory L.
Meot-Ner Michael
No associations
LandOfFree
Directed panspermia - A technical and ethical evaluation of seeding nearby solar systems does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.
If you have personal experience with Directed panspermia - A technical and ethical evaluation of seeding nearby solar systems, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Directed panspermia - A technical and ethical evaluation of seeding nearby solar systems will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-975070