The search for life in the solar system

The search for extraterrestrial life in the solar system is reviewed in the light of present knowledge about the physical state of the planets. Arguing that all life in the universe is based on carbon chemistry, the carbon abundance in the solar system is discussed along with the composition of the planets, the presence of organic compounds (particularly amino acids) in meteorites, and the existence of complex organic compounds in interstellar space. Prospects for life in the solar system are evaluated by eliminating most of the bodies as potential biological habitats on the basis of temperature and lack of an atmosphere. Bodies eliminated in this manner include the moon, most of the other satellites, Mercury, Venus, the asteroids, and the giant planets. It is shown that the outlook for life on Titan is uncertain, but that Mars fulfills the minimum conditions for a life-bearing planet. Theories on the Martian surface environment are reviewed, the problem of the lack of water on Mars is examined, and the possibility of climatic changes is considered. The Viking mission is briefly noted.