Exploring student attitudes in astrobiology laboratory sessions within an astronomical observatory: A questionnaire-based study

Astrobiology is a crosscutting science that bridges multiple disciplines, yet it remains largely absent from science curricula in Italian high schools, as well as in many other countries. The Astronomical Observatory of the Autonomous Region of the Aosta Valley (OAVdA) has developed a laboratory activity aimed at engaging students with astrobiology, leveraging its connection to exoplanet research. This activity serves as a tool to spark curiosity about the search for life beyond Earth and to foster a deeper appreciation of astronomy as an evolving field of scientific exploration. To assess its impact, students participated in a three-stage questionnaire process: before, immediately after, and a few weeks following the activity. The initial questionnaire gauged prior knowledge and interest in astrobiology, while the second captured shifts in perception and engagement. The third, designed to measure long-term retention, was ultimately excluded from statistical analysis due to inconsistencies in responses. With more than three hundred responses collected for each of the first two phases, the study revealed notable changes in students’ self-awareness and perspectives on astrobiology’s role in scientific research. Beyond its educational implications, this activity highlights the potential of handson, inquiry-based experiences in astronomy communication. While astrobiology proved to be an engaging topic, the results suggest that complementary approaches are needed to effectively address persistent misconceptions about astronomical research.