In 2025, as we celebrate ten years of astrobiology in Aotearoa, we are organising a series of talks and events with special guests from NASA and the Blue Marble Space Institute of Science.
This programme is proudly supported by the US Embassy in New Zealand, in partnership with the Earth and Space Science Educators of New Zealand (ESSENZ), Mount Maunganui College, and the Air Force Museum of New Zealand.
Astrobiology explores life in the Universe — where it might exist, how it began, and whether we’re alone.
In Aotearoa New Zealand, our unique landscapes and cultural perspectives make us a natural home for this science. From geothermal fields to clear skies, Māori knowledge to NASA collaborations, we bring astrobiology to life through research, education, and outreach.
Our Journey So Far
10 years of astrobiology
It’s been 10 incredible years since astrobiology took root in Aotearoa.
From NASA collaborations to nationwide school programmes, from the first Mars exhibition in NZ to students reaching for the stars — we’ve come a long way.
Explore our highlights below.
The first international astrobiology conference in New Zealand, Astrobiology Australasia Meeting, AAM2018 brought together 10 invited speakers/facilitators and 82 scientists