The first edition of the Astrobiology Primer was published in 2006 providing a comprehensive introduction to the field. Sponsored by the NAI, the Primer was spearheaded by editor-in-chief Lucas Mix, and represented the work of graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and countless contributors. Intended as a reference tool, it provided information in 7 topics: Stellar Formation and Evolution, Planetary Formation and Evolution, Astrobiogeochemistry and the Origin of Life, Evolution of Life Through Time, Planet Detection and Characterization, Diversity of Life, and Science in Space.
