Introduction to Planetary Protection

This course provides an overview of international policies, standards and methodologies used to implement planetary protection measures in space missions. It includes discussions on compliance to UN Outer Space Treaty requiring space explorations to avoid harmful contamination of celestial bodies (including the Moon) and adverse changes in the environment of Earth (as a result of introduction of extra-terrestrial matter). Emphasis will be put on both theoretical, management and practical aspects of planetary protection, with hands-on laboratory training in microbial sampling and cleanroom activities. The course is taught by international experts in the field of planetary protection, with knowledge across multiple disciplines, as well as direct involvement in state-of-the-art astrobiology missions.