For a long time, imagining what alien life could look like was mostly the job of science fiction creators. But in recent years, the field of astrobiology has gotten a boost from the discovery of faraway exoplanets with atmospheres which could support life. In trying to imagine what aliens could look like, scientists have found that science fiction is a good jumping off point. Astrobiologist Michael Wong hosts a science of Star Trek podcast called Strange New Worlds, and biologist Mohamed Noor wrote a book called Live Long and Evolve about what Star Trek can teach us about science. They discuss the influence Star Trek has on the way they question what the building blocks of life could be outside Earth, and what would happen if you rewound the clock of evolution. Plus, Jaime Green talks about her book The Possibility of Life, where she interviewed scientists about which science fiction is asking the right questions about astrobiology. Featuring readings by actor Luke Daniels.

This week’s episode is sponsored by ShipStation and TodayTix

• Go to shipstation.com and use the code IMAGINARY to sign up for your FREE 60-day trial.


• Go to TodayTix.com/imaginary and use the promo code IMAGINARY to get $20 off your first Today Tix purchase.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices