How did our planet become conducive to life? What did it look like and, and where did it start?

Astrobiology is the study of the origin, evolution, distribution and future of life in the Universe. For now, the only life we know is that found on our planet. Yet, as Charles Darwin observed, "These elaborately constructed forms, so different from each other, and dependent upon each other in so complex a manner, have all been produced by laws acting around us."

How did one particular ball of molten rock evolve a surface of blue oceans and green lands teeming with life?

A panel of scientists will present the latest scientific findings about the events that rendered our planet habitable. Panelists include:

• Jeff Taylor from the Hawai`i Institute of Geophysics and Planetology at UH will discuss "Haphazard Planet Construction."

• Karen Meech from UH Institute for Astronomy will speak on the "Origin of Earth's Water."

• Steve Mojzsis from the Department of Geological Sciences, University of Colorado with Steve Freeland, Project Manager, UH NASA Astrobiology Institute will talk about the "Habitability of Our Planet—and Others?"

"When and How did our Planet Become Conducive to Life?" is at 7.30-9 p.m. tonight at the University of Hawaii Art Auditorium. The lecture is free and open to the public (campus parking, $5)

Event Sponsor: Institute for Astronomy, Manoa Campus

Information: Karen Rehbock, 956-6829, rehbock@hawaii.edu, ifa.hawaii.edu