Habitability of moons around free-floating planets (B01)

• Subject Area: Astrophysics and Astronomy
• Term: since 2024
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 521256690

Free-floating exoplanets (FFPs) and their moons share similarities with Earth during the Hadean eon, including the presence of liquid water and a tidal-induced wet-dry cycle that could favor the formation of RNA precursors. We use theoretical models to understand the factors contributing to the emergence of life. Two research avenues are pursued: a lower-resolution approach focusing on astrophysical and geophysical factors, and a higher-resolution approach examining biochemistry and astrophysics. Despite differences between Earth during the Hadean eon and FFP moons, this project seeks to enhance our understanding of the emergence of life in both environments. The findings will contribute to our general knowledge and shed light on the conditions necessary for life to arise.

• DFG Programme: CRC/Transregios
• Subproject of: TRR 392: Molecular evolution in prebiotic environments
• Applicant Institution: Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München
• Project Head: Professorin Barbara Ercolano, Ph.D., since 1/2024