Important Change to Forum Rule 1.3, Astrobiology Discussions Options

[Astro0]

Please note a important amendment to this rule as noted in Post #3 of this topic.

This is a very important announcement about a change to Forum Rule 1.3 related to discussion of astrobiology.
Please make yourself aware of the revised rule which now reads:
1.3 Astrobiology may not be discussed here, even in the context of a mission with those stated goals. This includes other banned topics such as SETI, "Red Rain," alien visitors, exobiology, biosignatures, microorganisms, organics, fossils et cetera.
Previously this rule allowed limited discussion on astrobiology in the context of missions like Viking or Curiosity.
After many years of debate on this issue by the Admin team, it has now been decided to completely ban discussion of astrobiology on the Forum. While we certainly support the science goal of discovering evidence of life beyond Earth, experience here and on other websites and forums demonstrates that discussions on astrobiology and alien life almost invariably results in polarizing arguments building up or it attracts the lunatic fringe who see "martian skulls" at every turn. Either way it becomes a moderation nightmare.
While some members may find this change to the rules difficult to deal with, especially in the context of a mission such as Curiosity, we want you to know that the decision was not taken lightly. We believe that there is plenty of scope for people to discuss astrobiology on any number of other space related forums (Google them - they're are out there).
Please note that this change to Rule 1.3 is effective as of 19th October 2012.
If you are at all unsure about what this change means, please contact me (as part of the Admin team) anytime.

[Astro0]

To All Members -
Please note an important amendment to the astrobiology Rule 1.3

1.3 Astrobiology may not be discussed here, even in the context of a mission with those stated goals. This includes other banned topics such as SETI, "Red Rain," alien visitors, exobiology, biosignatures, microorganisms, fossils et cetera. (Amended 19Oct'12 / Updated 21Nov'12)

The amendment has removed the word "organics" from the list of banned topics.

This change does not open the door in any way to discuss 'astrobiology'. To define that, we mean the search for, research of, and speculation about the existence, origin, evolution, distribution, and future of life in the universe: simple or complex terrestrial and/or non-terrestrial life/organisms.

Members may discuss the science and observations being done/reported by specific instruments on various missions used to detect chemical compounds and other elements on the periodic table.

The Admin Team has been busy discussing this matter and have highly appreciated everyone's patience and support.

To assist us in moderating any discussion, we will be restricting discussion rising from Curiosity's mission to a specific thread for the SAM and CheMin instruments. Discussion here and in sections such as Saturn>Cassini will be closely monitored by the admin/mod team who will act quickly on any breaches.

If you have any specific questions, please feel to ask any time.

[stevelu]

The amendment has removed the word "organics" from the list of banned topics.

Yay. 8^)

Thanks to all involved.