Why astrobiology needs collaboration

Abstract

Antarctic astrobiological research has benefited from the affiliation of the UK Astrobiology Forum (UKAF) to the NASA Astrobiology Institute (NAI). NAI funding of a miniature Raman spectrometer for the characterization of biomolecules in Antarctic cold deserts as a prelude to its space qualification for a future Mars lander/rover mission is a pratical example of collaboration between the UK and USA fostered by this agreement. Research by the British Antarctic Survey into cyanobacterial communities under stress from UV, desiccation, salinity stress and low temperature features in joint studies associated with NASA Ames Research Center, Montana State University and the International Space Station.