•  
  •  
 

Faculty Mentor

Arthur Omran, PhD

Faculty Mentor Department

Chemistry and Biochemistry

Abstract

Astronomical observation is revealing thousands of new worlds while inferentially suggesting the existence of countless others, as advances in gravitational-wave astronomy and cosmology continue to expand our grasp of the observable universe. This study introduces the gravitational viability factor, 𝐺v, and the concept of graviphilic systems as a framework for organizing astrobiological inquiry. 𝐺v is proposed as a conceptual framework for connecting universal biological constraints with contingent biological outcomes. Gravity is not merely a constraint on life but a useful organizing parameter for evaluating biological plausibility across environments. An abundance of potential telescope targets is available through exoplanetary science, yet within prebiotic chemistry these targets are often assessed as a product of astrophysical inquiry rather than initially selected. Emerging observational capabilities stand to make gravitational parameters increasingly measurable, creating a need for frameworks that help interpret, compare, and select such systems. Considering expanding exoplanet databases, observed microgravitational effects on cellular biology, and increasingly sophisticated methods for inferring gravitational environments, it may be worthwhile to formalize gravity as a fundamental parameter for evaluating telescope targets as the sciences of astrobiology and astrophysical observation continue to converge.

Download

Share

COinS
 

Accessibility Statement

This item was created or digitized before April 24, 2027, or is a reproduction of legacy material created before that date. It is preserved in its original, unmodified state specifically for research, reference, or historical recordkeeping. In accordance with the ADA Title II Final Rule, the Library provides accessible versions of archival materials by request. If you are experiencing difficulty accessing the information on the site due to a disability, please submit a request through the following form for assistance.