(Poster) Astrobiology and society in Europe today – The white paper on societal implications of astrobiology research in European context

The poster presents the White Paper “Astrobiology and Society in Europe Today” dealing with societal implications of astrobiology research in a European context. The poster provides an overview of sections related to contributions of astrobiology to society, advancement of science in Europe, environmental protection and the quest for sustainability, as well as societal challenges from astrobiology and potential conflicts of interest between astrobiology and commercial use of space. Furthermore, it will illustrate the contemporary perceptions of astrobiology by the general public and the timely role of an organised initiative in astrobiology education and popularisation of science. The White Paper was produced by Working Group 5 “History and Philosophy of Astrobiology” of the European COST Action Life-ORIGINS (TD1308).