Similar variability can be expected both within and among inhabited worlds beyond Earth, if any exist, and understanding it can inform target selection, observing strategies, and measurement requirements for missions that seek evidence of life.

To build this understanding, scientists in CLD conduct research to assess how environmental factors affect “detectability” – the extent to which life, if present, would express itself in characteristic, observable features.

Researchers in CLD work actively to engage a diverse range of communities in the use of this tool in order to harness expertise that is not well represented in the traditional sphere of space science.

The LDF is being built as a web-based platform that can be populated and continually updated by a broad user base, in order to track the evolving state of knowledge regarding life detection science and technology.

The Life Detection Forum Project is responsive to the NASEM ABS recommendation: “NASA should aid the community in developing a comprehensive framework [...] to guide testing and evaluation of in situ and remote biosignatures.