Microbial Adaptations to Extreme Environments

Microbial Adaptations to Extreme Environments: Lessons from Astrobiology: Explore extremophilic microorganisms inhabiting extreme environments on Earth, such as hot springs, deep-sea hydrothermal vents, and polar regions, as analogs for life in extraterrestrial environments. Discuss the adaptations of extremophiles to survive and thrive in conditions of high temperature, pressure, acidity, or salinity, and their implications for astrobiology and the search for life beyond Earth. Consider the potential for extremophiles to inform the design of life-detection missions to extraterrestrial bodies, such as Mars or icy moons like Europa and Enceladus.