New data may serve to bring about
the long overdue paradigm shift from theories of Earth-centered life to life
being a truly cosmic phenomenon. The theory that bacteria and viruses similar to those on Earth exist in comets, other planets and generally throughout the
galaxy was developed as a serious scientific discipline from the early 1980’s.
Throughout the past three decades this idea has often been the subject of
criticism, denial or even ridicule.
Even though many discoveries in astronomy,
geology and biology continued to provide supportive evidence for the theory of
cosmic life, the rival theory of Earth-centered biology has remained deeply rooted in scientific culture. However, several recent developments are
beginning to strain the credibility of the standard point of view.