Projects
PML research fields range widely from exstraterrestrial to terrestrial materials.
Our scientific interests extent from understanding lifes place within the universe (Astrobiology) to origin of life on the Earth (Earth's Early Life), from processes in the Solar nebular and in asteroid (Asteroids, Meteorites) to dynamics and evolution of the Earth (Magma-Mantle Dynamics, Mantle Geochemistry, Rift Geodynamics, Subduction Geodynamics).
Furthermore, our Laboratory is actively involved in Future Planetary Expolaration and Sample Return mission.
In addition, we have studied ferruginous protein bodies in human lung tissue, applying our multi-element analyzes (Biogeochemistry).
Abstract
On December 10-11, 2019, the PML of the Institute for Planetary Materials (IPM), Okayama University and the Australian Centre for Astrobiology of the University of New South Wales Australia co-hosted a two-day workshop in Misasa, Japan, to develop a proposal for a sample return mission to the Columbia Hills of Mars – here named "LifeSprings".
Finance
The project is funded by Okayama University, the University of New South Wales Australia, and BHP.
Related works
Astrobiology
Abstract
Astrobiology is tasked with understanding life within the universe. Individual topics vary from the origin of life to the distribution of life within our universe and the existance of intelligent life. Our work focuses on the application of materials science. Thus, we are concerned with prebiotic extraterrestrial and terrestrial chemistry, as well as the search for life on other planets within our solar system, such as Mars.
Finance
The project is funded by the Japanese Government.
