Students explore new depths in astrobiology

MSc Astrobiology and Planetary Sciences students visit Boulby Mine, the world's first subsurface astrobiology lab.

Students enrolled on the MSc degree in Astrobiology and Planetary Sciences have literally deepened their knowledge by descending a kilometre underground to explore life in extreme environments.

In December 2024, the students travelled to Boulby Mine, the location of the world's first subsurface astrobiology lab, established by the University of Edinburgh’s UK Centre for Astrobiology (UKCA) in 2013. 

The mission to the subsurface began with lectures on using mine facilities as analogues for extraterrestrial environments. The students then completed health and safety training and donned protective gear for the expedition underground.

Inside the mine, students practised sterile sampling methods and investigated salt mineral deposits similar to those found on Mars. They learned about geothermal heat, ionizing radiation, geology, and subsurface microbiology. A highlight was touring a Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) laboratory including dark matter and neutrino detectors. 

Salma Malaika, MSc Astrobiology and Planetary Sciences student said:

From just a few hours underground, I was able to gain an intuitive feel for what it means to be a researcher in an isolated world, and to truly see the beauty and intricacy behind conducting research in a challenging environment. My passion for the field—and admiration for researchers and staff—has only grown.

Andrew Wright, MSc Astrobiology and Planetary Sciences student commented:

Surrounded by halite crystals, 1000 meters below the surface, few things can compare. Being able to witness the frontier of dark matter and astrobiology research in person was astounding! It was like experiencing another world on Earth and was an experience I’ll never forget.

The immersive activity was part of MINAR (Mine Analog Research) which brings scientists and technologists together to use the Boulby underground laboratory to conduct science and test equipment in support of space exploration. This visit was made possible by the kind support of the STFC and ICL Boulby.