MEPAG Search for Life – Science Analysis Group Science Community Virtual Workshops
Part 1: Tuesday July 8th, 8am PDT/11am EDT/5pm CEST
Part 2: Tuesday August 5th – Thursday August 7th, 8am PDT/11am EDT/5pm CEST
Please join the MEPAG Search for Life-Science Analysis Group (SFL-SAG) for a set of virtual workshops* to solicit feedback and community input to feed into the SFL-SAG Final Report. The purpose of the SFL-SAG is to refine the recommendation for a ‘Search for Life’ mission in the National Academies Planetary Science Decadal Survey by identifying the specific science and technology needs that would enable a life-detection mission to an ice-rich, mid-latitude site that would also: 1. Assess habitability of the near-surface environment; 2. Determine the history of Martian processes and paleoenvironments recorded in mid-latitude ice deposits; and 3. Elucidate the processes that preserve/modify/destroy these ice deposits in the modern climate.
The SAG has also been asked to consider:
- Overlaps and distinctions in science and technology advancements needed to enable life detection missions to other potentially habitable regions
- Differing mission architectures that might be needed for the alternative environments
- What capabilities (spacecraft or instrument) might benefit the search for life, but may not be viable on a medium-class mission
Part 1 of this workshop will take place on Tuesday July 8th, from 8am – 10am PDT. The SAG will provide an out-brief on their current progress and draft findings and discuss inputs that the community can provide in advance of Part 2 of the workshop. Review materials will be provided in advance of Part 1 to those who fill out the Indication of Interest form.
Part 2 of the workshop will take place over 3 half days from Tuesday August 5th-Thursday August 7th, from 8am-12pm PDT. The final agenda for this workshop will be determined by the inputs received from the science community following Part 1 of the workshop, and is expected to include contributed talks as well as breakout room discussions and preparation of workshop findings that will be included in the SFL-SAG Final Report. The SFL-SAG anticipates submitting the draft Final Report for community review in September.
Review materials will be provided ~1 week before the workshop along with a link to an online form for feedback and community input. The recording of both meetings will be posted, and the feedback form will remain open after the workshops to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to participate, whether they are able to attend the workshop or not. Updates about these meetings and the link to the preparatory materials will be sent to those who have filled out the Indication of Interest Form.
Contact [email protected] with any questions.
- Government employees and contractors should note that this is a programmatic workshop and NOT a conference.
Astrobiology
