The Evolution of Chemical Complexity in the Universe

Nuclear fusion is the process by which two or more atomic nuclei combine to form a single heavier nucleus. This process releases a great amount of energy, which is what powers stars.

Hydrogen is the most abundant element in the universe, accounting for about 75% of all matter. Helium is the second most abundant element, accounting for about 24% of all matter.

Abiogenesis is the process by which organic molecules are formed from inorganic molecules. This process is thought to have occurred on Earth about 3.5 billion years ago.

Panspermia is the theory that states that life on Earth originated from extraterrestrial sources. This theory is based on the idea that organic molecules and even microorganisms can be transported from one planet to another by comets, asteroids, or other celestial objects.

Mars 2020 is a mission that is searching for signs of life on Mars. The mission launched in July 2020 and is expected to reach Mars in February 2021.

The James Webb Space Telescope is a telescope that is searching for signs of life on other planets. The telescope launched in December 2021 and is expected to begin operations in 2022.

Mars is the planet that is most likely to harbor life because it has a thin atmosphere, liquid water on its surface, and a relatively stable climate.

Europa is the moon that is most likely to harbor life because it has a subsurface ocean that is thought to contain liquid water.

Proxima Centauri is the star that is most likely to harbor life because it is a red dwarf star that is relatively close to Earth.

TRAPPIST-1e is the planet that is most likely to harbor life in the TRAPPIST-1 system because it is located in the habitable zone of its star.

Europa Clipper is a mission that is searching for signs of life on Europa. The mission is scheduled to launch in 2024 and is expected to reach Europa in 2030.

Enceladus Explorer is a mission that is searching for signs of life on Enceladus. The mission is scheduled to launch in 2026 and is expected to reach Enceladus in 2032.

Titan Explorer is a mission that is searching for signs of life on Titan. The mission is scheduled to launch in 2034 and is expected to reach Titan in 2039.

Mars 2020 is a mission that is searching for signs of life on Mars. The mission launched in July 2020 and is expected to reach Mars in February 2021.

Venus Express is a mission that is searching for signs of life on Venus. The mission launched in November 2005 and is expected to end in 2023.