Abstract EANA2026-14

One of the trends in the development of astrobiology is its integration with ecology, the science of terrestrial ecosystems, their interactions, and levels of organization. Astroecology is a new scientific discipline that addresses environmental issues at a new biosystems level-metabiosphere, including outer space. Astroecology as a science includes three main area of research.

The first area is related to terrestrial issues and is based on the application of approaches and methods from terrestrial ecology employing remote sensing and other space-related technologies. The second area is concerned with the modeling and study of closed artificial ecosystems and their operating principles, particularly with regard to the creation of life-support ecosystems for astronauts on space missions or on extraterrestrial research stations. The third area is concerned with the study of hypothetical extraterrestrial ecosystems on various celestial bodies, their formation, organizational principles and features, as well as the development of concepts for terraforming various celestial bodies with the participation of terrestrial organisms, with the goal of creating there the conditions favorable for the development of terrestrial biosystems and human existence.

Methodology of astroecology is currently just being formed, but it basically represents the general approaches and concepts of classical ecology applied to cosmic phenomena. This will require the involvement of ecologists to address various scientific challenges related to the study and exploration of outer space. It is quite possible that the expertise of an astroecologist will be essential in the future for the implementation of manned space programs.

The concept of further human space exploration is associated with the development of a new resource base, the establishment of new settlement sites, and the enhancement of future survival prospects through the acquisition of important knowledge related to the space being explored.

Astroecology will contribute to the formation of a forward-looking ecological vision oriented toward understanding the Earth and terrestrial life as a cosmic phenomenon. Finally, ecologists with their balanced approach to ecosystem functioning and concern for environmental protection must bring a corresponding scientific humanistic perspective to the process of further space exploration, which will also promote greater responsibility, the search for optimal solutions, and, ultimately, the survival of humanity.