Publicación:

Astrobiology and planetary sciences in Colombia

Resumen

This chapter presents a historical and contemporary review of the devel- opment of astrobiology and planetary sciences in Colombia, highlighting their ori- gins, progress, and future projections. Beginning with the emblematic fall of the Santa Rosa de Viterbo meteorite in 1810—an event that symbolizes the country’s initial engagement with cosmic knowledge—the chapter traces the key milestones in research, education, outreach, and the formation of scientific communities. It examines the early initiatives in exobiology, the consolidation of research groups, the role of museums and planetariums, as well as strategies for the social appropriation of scientific knowledge. Furthermore, it explores major research lines in extreme environments and planetary analogs, alongside the development of educational programs and specialized scientific events. Finally, it outlines the per- spectives that position Colombia as an emerging actor in the field of space sci- ences, leveraging its biodiversity, geodiversity, and the strengthening of interdisciplinary networks.