Chronology

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Prof. Dr. Thomas K. Henning
Max-Planck-Institut für Astronomie
Heidelberg

Astronomers have now discovered almost 6,000 extrasolar planets. Statistical studies show that rocky planets are particularly common—some have been found in the zone where liquid water can exist. What do we know about these planets? How can life arise on such rocky planets? How did these processes unfold on early Earth? The lecture will provide an overview of the astronomical fundamentals as well as the chemical processes that lead to prebiotic molecules and ultimately to the emergence of life