Vibrational spectroscopy and search for extraterrestrial life

Abstract

Vibrational spectroscopy is one of the vital tools in astrobiology. In this paper we have studied the role of IR spectroscopy in the detection of plant and animal life elsewhere in our galaxy. Using relevant astrophysical data of nearby extrasolar planets we have calculated the detection limits of IR spectra of life related chemical compounds from these objects. The probability of detection of methane and plant pigments is found to relatively higher near M type stars compared to G type stars. A list of Jupiter size extrasolar planets discovered around G type stars which are potential objects for possible detection of plant life through IR reflection spectroscopy is also prepared.