The First Interstellar Astronauts Will Not Be Human

TL;DR

This paper discusses the potential for robotic interstellar exploration using small spacecraft powered by directed-energy propulsion, capable of transporting life and addressing biological, technological, and ethical challenges.

Contribution

It introduces the concept of interstellar spacecraft that can carry life, emphasizing biological resilience, technological feasibility, and ethical considerations for interstellar biological missions.

Findings

Radiation-tolerant microorganisms can survive interstellar conditions.

Directed-energy propulsion enables relativistic spacecraft beyond our solar system.

Ethical and planetary protection concerns are critical for interstellar biological exploration.

Abstract

Our ability to explore the cosmos by direct contact has been limited to a small number of lunar and interplanetary missions. However, the NASA Starlight program points a path forward to send small, relativistic spacecraft far outside our solar system via standoff directed-energy propulsion. These miniaturized spacecraft are capable of robotic exploration but can also transport seeds and organisms, marking a profound change in our ability to both characterize and expand the reach of known life. Here we explore the biological and technological challenges of interstellar space biology, focusing on radiation-tolerant microorganisms capable of cryptobiosis. Additionally, we discuss planetary protection concerns and other ethical considerations of sending life to the stars.