Astro-Bioengineering: Searching for the Limit of Life introduces high school students to the many aspects of astrobiology and bioengineering through lectures, workshops, virtual field trips, hands-on lab activities and projects. The summer STEM course starts with an interdisciplinary examination on the physical, biological, chemical and geological properties of potential extraterrestrial habitats and their Earth analogs, with a focus on the engineering technology involved. This biophysiochemical understanding provides the basis for the search of biomarkers on potential extinct or extant life. Topics include Earth’s extremophiles, Earth and exoplanet habitability, life detection technologies, origin of life, and technology for the detection of biomarkers. Students will work on projects to solve real-life multifaceted astrobiology problems using engineering principles. Students will perform a simulated exobiological sampling to search for life, design and prototype a simulated Mars Rover. All students who successfully complete the course will receive a Certificate of Completion and have the opportunity to request a Syracuse University noncredit transcript. Course Objectives As a result of successful course completion, students will: - Obtain a broad exposure to astrobiology and related bioengineering principles. - Appreciate the use of engineering principles and scientific methods in the search of biomarkers - Obtain hands-on skills in building a robotic car - Build a mathematical, geological, physical, biological and chemical foundation in astrobiology