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Exogeoconservation of Astrobiologically Important Features on Mars – a scientific approach

Presented by:

Clare Fletcher

Clare Fletcher

    UNSW

 

Martin Van Kranendonk

    UNSW

 

Carol Oliver

    UNSW

 

Exogeoconservation is a relatively new field with the term first being used in 2018. One criticism of the field so far is that while many people have proposed areas to conserve or methods to aid the conservation process these are not based in science. There is also a heavy focus on Planetary Protection (rightfully so) which at present only deals with forward and backward contamination. My research argues both for a more scientific approach to exogeoconservation as well as including exogeoconservation approaches in the field of Planetary Protection. Throughout my research I will look at understanding present laws and frameworks for exogeoconservation and approaches we take on Earth in similar early environments (e.g., Pilbara WA). I will develop a framework for understanding the potential astrobiological significance of various sites on Mars and from there work out the most appropriate method of conserving these sites. I will also seek to understand perspectives both from space scientists and the general public about geoheritage and the impacts on humanity of the loss of geoheritage. I will also seek to come up with proposed legal frameworks moving forward that will allow for appropriate conservation while still maintaining the exploration of Mars.

Category:

Mars

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