The Case for Integrating Astrobiology Before, During, and After Crewed Space Missions.

Abstract

The transition to sustained human space exploration is reshaping how astrobiology can be conducted. As missions extend beyond low Earth orbit and involve governmental and commercial actors, astrobiology is increasingly becoming embedded in complex operational and policy environments. These developments can be seen as a shift in the operational, interpretive, and governance contexts of astrobiology, affecting how investigations are conducted, how findings are interpreted, and how research is coordinated across mission phases. Here, we outline the implications of human presence for astrobiology research and its integration within evolving exploration architectures, and examine its role in future missions.