Life in Our Universe

Discussing the possibility that life exists in some form in the cosmos; five major questions the discussion endeavors to answer; how exponential growth in technological developments is enabling breakthroughs that were recently impossible.

Going from a dead universe to a universe full of life; evaluating the scientific evidence supporting the Big Bang theory of the universe's creation; learning the role stars play in creating carbon; the key elements needed for life.

Looking at what is currently known about the process by which billions of small planetesimals form the solar system's planets; how this process leaves the universe teeming with asteroids and comets that play an important role in life on Earth.

Following a series of mishaps and cataclysmic events that set the stage for early Earth to flourish with life after 650 million years; how a hot core, a large moon and other properties on Earth help lead to an active biosphere.

The Late Heavy Bombardment period that keeps Earth in a lifeless state for 650 million years; the K-T impact event that wipes out the dinosaurs; considering whether it is possible to protect humans from asteroids; why Hollywood gets it wrong.

How the Earth stays within a moderate range of temperatures for billions of years; convection, greenhouse gases and the carbon rock cycle contribute to a system of checks and balances that helps Earth's climate support life; Earth's earliest life.