Astrobiology combines the sciences of biology, chemistry, palaeontology, geology, planetary physics and astronomy, in the study of the origin, evolution and distribution of life in the universe. This textbook brings together world experts in each of these disciplines to provide the most comprehensive and up-to-date coverage of the field currently available. Topics cover the origin and evolution of life on Earth, the geological, physical and chemical conditions in which life might arise and the detection of extraterrestrial life on other planets and moons. Written to be accessible to students from diverse backgrounds, this text will be welcomed by advanced undergraduates and graduates who are taking astrobiology courses.