Sarah H. - Sierra Club, Inner City Outings - $200

Statement - “I remember Austin saying that while he loved Chicago, he missed getting outside the city into nature,...until he joined the UChicago Outdoor Adventure Club. Not all children have the opportunity or resources to explore the natural world. The Inner City Outings division of the Sierra Club sponsors outdoor excursions for urban children, including the Chicago division in Illinois. (Charity Navigator: 4 Stars)”

Elizabeth D. - Half to the Friends of the Chicago River - $250

Statement -  “A $250 donation is categorized as a “yellow-headed blackbird” donation, named for the lovely bird that comes here in the summer and needs healthy rivers, and that winters in New Mexico and surrounding states. Friends of the Chicago River mixes policy initiatives with volunteer opportunities with helping families and young people to have fun on the river and to understand its needs and the needs of the wetlands that surround rivers as natural habitats. The picture at the top of the homepage, with young people canoeing down a metropolitan river that is lined only with trees, speaks to Austin’s profound connection to nature and to adventure. He would have been in this canoe without a second thought.”

Isaac -The National Forest Foundation - $333

Statement - “Austin always took pleasure in hiking and exploring wild places, so donating to a wilderness preservation nonprofit makes perfect sense. The National Forest Foundation appeals to me most out of all the wilderness preservation organizations because any donation will lead directly to the planting of trees, so that Austin’s love and legacy will be carried on in the growth and spread of a beautiful forest.”

Shari O. - Bear Hug Foundation - $250

Statement - “The second organization provides experiential and outdoor educational summer camp programs for underprivileged, at-risk and special needs children.  Connor's soul thrived in nature.  I want to know that happens for other children, too, when they may not be able to afford those opportunities.”

Isaac - - The Wilderness Society - $333

Statement - “Much like the National Forest Foundation, the Wilderness Society is committed to protecting and preserving the places of great natural beauty that Austin loved. I like the Wilderness Society because it allows for donations to be made in honor or in memory of someone.”

Paula, Adam, Dalia and Jason S. - Los Amigos de Valles Caldera - $500

Statement - “We wanted to find a worthy organization that combined some of Austin’s interests and hope that we have done so.  The Valles Caldera National Preserve Trust was established to protect the Valles Caldera in the Jemez Mountains.  A charitable organization, Los Amigos de Valles Caldera, was set up as a sister organization to the trust so that charitable contributions could be made to support their efforts.   They are dedicated to not only preserving the wildness of the caldera, but also to improving the landscape and involving and educating the public about the science behind what they do.  We know how much you have all enjoyed hiking in New Mexico, and how important science and education are to all of you, and thought that this might be a good way to honor Austin.” 

Kevin, Judy, Christopher and Stephen W. - $400

Statement - “ BTW, we could have come up with hundreds of deserving charities each with a clear nod towards Austin, however, $100 to each of these 5 coupled with all of the other donations, will be an amazing tribute to both Austin and his lasting impact on the world around him. I will never forget Laurie’s charge to “live a little larger” and we believe that this gesture will allow some small fulfillment of this request while honoring Austin’s memory.

The charities we selected are:
www.childrensmuseumofphoenix.org
www.mcdowellsonoran.org
www.phoenixsymphony.org
www.azscience.org

Isaac  - The International Genetically Engineered Machine Competition - $333

Statement - “iGEM combines aspects of the scholarly competitions Austin loved with biochemistry research in the development of a synthetic biological organism or molecular tool that serves a useful purpose. I think iGEM is a competition in which Austin would have enjoyed sharing his knowledge and expertise.”

Stephanie and Stuart L. - Albuquerque Academy - $150

Statement - “We would like to donate $150 to the Academy's financial assistance fund so that kids in New Mexico can have access to a really fine student culture and an education that can allow them to fulfill their aspirations. Austin found his amazing peer group at the Academy when he was young, as are so many students in Albuquerque. We feel so fortunate to teach kids like Austin.”

Shari O. - Opportunity Music Project - $250

Statement - “The Opportunity Music Project provide free music lessons to children in inner cities whose families cannot afford them.  They attempt to change lives of kids who are most at risk by helping them discover the gift of music and their abilities.  Since this was an area that was near to both our sons' souls, I would like to see some funds go there.  Connor was a gifted composer, and I would enjoy knowing that perhaps another child's gifts could be discovered who would otherwise never be exposed to the world of music.”

Stephanie and Stuart L. - Outpost Performance Space - $150

Statement - “Second, we would like to give $150 to the Outpost performance Space.  Tom Guralnick brings world class music to Albuquerque, enriching our city, and he is also deeply committed to creating educational and performance opportunities for young musicians.  We believe that his vision is one that Austin shared.”

Jeremy S. - Santa Fe Art Institute - $250

Charity Statement - “SFAI takes as its mission an exploration of the intersections of contemporary art and society. By bringing together prominent individuals and institutions in the arts, sciences, and humanities, SFAI enlivens local, national, and international discourse through residencies, lectures, workshops, publications, exhibitions, and educational and outreach programming. Nurturing artists and providing a stimulating, creative atmosphere for their work serves society in an essential way and gives artists the support necessary to take risks and explore possibilities. For young people, the arts allow creativity and innovation to be valued along with the traditional skills for learning.”

Sarah H. - PACA: Kitty City - $200

Statement - Because Austin loved Misty so much, it seems fitting to honor the place from that brought her to your family. Additionally, it benefits a local no-kill shelter in Albuquerque.”

Mark H. and Susan S.  Greenhill Humane Society  $ 125

Charity Statement - “Greenhill Humane Society, SPCA will provide safe shelter for animals in transition, serve as advocates for animals and their people, work to end animal overpopulation and educate the public about compassion and responsibility towards all animals.” 

Talia A. - TAPS (Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors) - $500

Statement - “Something that is very near and dear to my heart are all the soldiers that have given the ultimate sacrifice for our safety. I don't know the exact name of the charity, but I do know they help families that have lost a loved one, and Im sure Greg, that you could find it with all the resources that you have. My Dad was a veteran and I was always proud as he was of his service to our country. Thank you so much for allowing me to take part in this wonderful thing that you are doing in honor of your wonderful son & brother.”

Stephanie and Stuart L. - Think New Mexico - $200

Statement - “Lastly, we are enthusiastic supporters of Think New Mexico, a non-partisan, results-oriented nonprofit that takes on one project at a time to improve life in New Mexico.  They have been really successful over the years they have been in existence. Some of their projects have included helping to repeal the sales tax on food, which hits the poor unfairly and currently they are working to offer creative and practical ways to spur job creation in our state.  They also have a terrific  intern program, and several AA alums have earned that opportunity.  We would like to donate 200 of our allotment to this organization.”

expense and care of his dogs, to have some funding to continue that good work as long as he chooses to do so, and for him to know that others are grateful for his presence in Chicago and willingness to help others when all other help has failed.  I have a son who just started college in Chicago who also roams throughout the downtown and Chicago area at all hours of the day and night.  I pray that I never need to contact Mr. Larson, but it is good to know that Mr. Larson is out there and willing to help families who are desperate to find any information about their loved ones.”

Sheila and Jim H. - Captain Dexter fund - $250

Statement - "We'd love to see half of our donation to help Mr. Larson and Captain Dexter continue to do their fine work."

Cath - Mr. Larson and Captain Dexter - $200 

Statement - "Finally, I simply cannot forget the work of Robert T Larson and Captain Dexter. I still read his posts and am humbled at the capacity and drive he has to assist people who have lost a loved one."

Marie W. - Captain Dexter fund - $50

Statemet - "Just wanted to thank you so much for your work in general, and specifically for what you did for the Hudson-Lapore family this past June. All the best"

Because I share Austin's interest in science, I have chosen to donate to PATH, a medical research organization based here in Seattle.  PATH is involved in important research that has changed the lives of many people in resource-limited countries, so I think Austin would approve!”

Cath B. - Alder Hey Children’s Hospital - $400

Statement - “You know about the incredibly difficult initial months Jon had when Alex was first born - and if it was not for the dedication and determination of the staff at the hospital he would not have made it. So I would like to make my first pledge to Alder Hey Children's Hospital (the busiest children's hospital in the UK) who are currently fundraising to build a new site.”

Laura and Isobel - Partners in Health  - $500  

Statement - “The other program Isobel likes and has raised money for in the past is Partners in Health.  They go to Haiti and Africa and do all kinds of really good work.  The founder of that outfit in an amazing doctor, Paul Farmer,  who was the subject of a book by Tracy Kidder called Mountains Beyond Mountains about his work in Haiti.”

Cath B. - Nordoff Robbins Music Charity - $400

Statement - “My second pledge is to the Nordoff Robbins music charity. Nordoff Robbins is a music charity dedicated to transforming the lives of vulnerable children and adults. They help a range of people with a range of challenges such as autism, dementia, mental health problems, stroke, brain injury, depression and life-threatening or terminal illnesses, such as cancer. All of the people they help have one uniting factor - music dramatically improves their quality of life.

I thought this was a fitting tribute to Austin's love of music. ”

homeless shelter providing meals, safe shelter, clothing, social services and the restorative message of God’s love for homeless men, women and children of the Eugene and Lane County communities. “

Mark H. and Susan S.  - $125 - Food for Lane County
Kristopher K. - $250 - Food for Lane County

Charity Statement - “FOOD for Lane County is a private, 501(c)(3) nonprofit food bank founded in 1984 and dedicated to eliminating hunger by creating access to food. We accomplish this by soliciting, collecting, rescuing, growing, preparing and packaging food for distribution through a network of more than 100 social service agencies and programs; through public awareness, education and community advocacy; and through programs designed to improve the ability of low-income individuals to maintain an adequate supply of wholesome, nutritious food. These programs include emergency food boxes, shelters, meal sites, rehabilitation facilities, nutrition education, gleaning and community gardens. We serve a diverse population of people living on limited incomes including children, families, seniors and single adults.”

Kristopher K. - $250 - Miriam's Kitchen in Washington, DC

Statement - “They do an awful lot with a little and there are a lot of hungry people in the streets of DC.”

Sheila and Jim H. - Guide Dogs for the Blind - $250

Charity Statement - “Guide Dogs for the Blind is more than an industry-leading guide dog school; we are a passionate community that serves the visually impaired. With exceptional client services and a robust network of trainers, puppy raisers, donors and volunteers, we prepare highly qualified guide dogs to serve and empower individuals who are blind or have low vision. All of our services are provided free of charge; we receive no government funding.”

Nicole O. - Ronald McDonald foundation - $500

Statement - “I have been thinking of a donation location since your email.  One would think my first suggestion would be for cancer research, however I am not sure how much I support that.  Sometimes you have to wonder how much of it is business.  For 3 years we did Relay for Life and then realized the $10,000 we raised would barely even put a dent in the CEO’s million dollar salary and less than 1% went to childhood cancer research.  My thoughts then tried to find some common ground between Austin and my daughter.  I was hoping to find a charity that supported young adults in someway that seemed meaningful to the both of them.   So my search was to find a charity that targeted a young adult or teenage group to encourage them to become more confident in who they are.  Knowing little of Austin, it was all I could think of.   I couldn’t find a charity that I felt confident with in that respect.  So then I thought of my son and Aidan and wondered if there was a charity out there that supported “surviving siblings”, I did find some, but again, nothing I felt good about.  My thoughts then went to “who helped us.”  Our community was amazing with support.  It seemed the entire town gathered around us with love her entire sickness and passing.  I believe I read somewhere that the same happened for your family.  I really wasn’t sure how to incorporate all that into finding the right charity, but that was the most significant help in the entire nightmare.  The one place that helped us the entire time we were in Boston was “The Ronald McDonald House”.  I know they have been a significant help to many families with sick children. So, although I really wanted to find the charity that would represent both their lives, the Ronald McDonald foundation is what I feel the strongest about.  Thank you for including me in this, I feel Austin’s light shining in me by being a part of his “12 Days of Christmas” (Thinking of his smile!)”

Claudia F. - $250 - Red Cross

Charity Statement - “The American Red Cross exists to provide compassionate care to those in need. Our network of generous donors, volunteers and employees share a mission of preventing and relieving suffering, here at home and around the world, through five key service areas: disaster relief, supporting military families, livesaving blood, health and safety services and international services”.

Clauria F. - $250 - Unicef.org (3X Christmas campaign made this a $750 donation)

Statement - “UNICEF is the driving force that helps build a world where the rights of every child are realized. We have the global authority to influence decision-makers, and the variety of partners at grassroots level to turn the most innovative ideas into reality.  That makes us unique among world organizations, and unique among those working with the young.

We believe that nurturing and caring for children are the cornerstones of human progress.  UNICEF was created with this purpose in mind – to work with others to overcome the obstacles that poverty, violence, disease and discrimination place in a child’s path.  We believe that we can, together, advance the cause of humanity.

We advocate for measures to give children the best start in life, because proper care at the youngest age forms the strongest foundation for a person’s future.

We promote girls’ education – ensuring that they complete primary education as a minimum – because it benefits all children, both girls and boys. Girls who are educated grow up to become better thinkers, better citizens, and better parents to their own children.

We act so that all children are immunized against common childhood diseases, and are well nourished, because it is wrong for a child to suffer or die from a preventable illness.”

i had been drawn to an article in the NYTimes about evidence based giving, and thought Austin would appreciate this hard nosed and warm hearted approach to giving (i then saw that none other than Aidan saw this as fitting too, so i know i'm in the best company here). i gave $200 to EvidenceAction.org, which i designated to the dispensers of safe water initiative they advocate (my experience in Sudan and elsewhere guided this decision as far reaching in its implications for health and well-being).

Looking at the article on evidence based giving led me to charity navigator where i made sure my choices were all 4 star--i know austin would have valued the efficiency and dedication that goes into an organization receiving 4 stars, and so i gave:

$200 to education through music (http://www.etmonline.org), which seemed to be one of the best organizations i could find that would bring the gift the music learning and appreciation to young people without financial resources in schools where music education has been decimated;

$200 to ocean discovery institute (http://oceandiscoveryinstitute.org/about-us/) based in your old stomping grounds in san diego and dedicated to offering young people the chance to understand science in a hands-on way and get involved with environmental stewardship through community based and school based environmental science programs;

$200 to wilderness inquiry (http://www.wildernessinquiry.org/about_us/index.php) which offers young people the chance to experience the beauties and astonishing vastness and inspirations of nature in wilderness settings near and far--some of them will surely become 'destination hikers' and share Austin's love of the wildness of the world;

$200 to cold spring harbor laboratory (https://www.cshl.edu). in a way this felt like an odd choice--a well funded, well established elite scientific institution--but their dedication to research and education and their accomplishments in so many areas of science, and the 'serene velocity' (to use the title of an avant garde film) of the worlds they create for scientists and science are places i know Austin would have shimmered and shook, so i wanted them to have a little trace of him even as i grieve for him and them that they won't get the real thing;

finally, in the realm of social, economic and environmental justice are 2 organizations i support routinely but i've given them extra in honor of Austin--

$250 to common ground relief (http://www.commongroundrelief.org) which is dedicated to  'solidarity not charity,' and has been active and successful in building socially just communities and organizations in the gulf coast area, especially new orleans, after katrina, including clinics--medical and legal, housing, and environmental justice projects like community gardens and wetlands restoration. (their budget is too small to register on charity navigator so this is my only non-4 star donation).

$250 to community voices heard (http://www.cvhaction.org/mission).  i am a member of the solidarity board of CVH and have actively supported them for years (thanks to this 12 days endeavor i actually looked them up on charity navigator and was delighted [but not surprised] to find they are a 4 star organization.)  it's a member run anti-poverty-anti-racist organization which does amazing work on housing, welfare reform, participatory budgeting (which i think austin would have appreciated), and employment skills and access.  i love their work and energy and am happy to give them this little bit more to honor the spirit of austin and this way of celebrating his life.

thank you for giving me this chance to think about and feel Austin's presence and rare gifts, and to give a little bit of that gorgeous presence and spirit back to the world.

- cin

PS.  Laurie and I will be doubling all of Cindi's contributions.

Katie S. - Yvonne Learning Center (Miami, FL) $100

Statement - “YLC is an underfunded school in Little Haiti in Miami. It acts as a charter school but aims to produce private school minds. It is grades K-12 with a division devoted to special needs children and teens. The school does mean to educate in a Christian style, but they implement discipline in a complex way. In contrast to the reputation most people have regarding catholic school discipline, YLC fosters and exceedingly loving environment alongside rigidity. Their strict methods stem from a respect for self, respect for learning, and respect for those around you. The teachers at YLC are some of the most underpaid and overworked in Miami-Dade, but love working at YLC because of the difference they make. YLC isn't very big, so they divide larger rooms in two to make two separate classrooms. Just to give you an idea of just how needy this school is, they can't ask their students to buy their own supplies. They give students supplies in the classroom, but there aren't enough items to go around. All the students shared pencils and erasers in groups of two and even three. Let's give these kids some pencils, y'all.”

Sarah - H. - Lights for Life - $200

Statement - “This is a cause that I learned about last year while working on a US AID grant. One of the primary reasons that children in developing countries leave school is because children have little or no access to lighting at home to do their schoolwork. Lights for life provides school-aged children with rechargeable lights so that they can read after the sun goes down. It is an easy, cost-effective way to change the lives of many children. (Endorsed by the Greater Good Foundation).”

Monty E. - One Laptop Per Child - $250

Statement - “Anything that gives children and adults access to technology that will improve their lives.”

Jeremey S. - Chicago Public Library Foundation - $250

Charity Statement - “The Chicago Public Library Foundation supports collection development, programs and technology initiatives that connect library users to their community and to the world and ensure that all Chicagoans have the freedom to read, to learn and to discover at the Chicago Public Library.”

Anonymous - Albuquerque Academy Scholarship Fund - $500

Statement - “I believe that Austin would have wanted the money to go to helping other students achieve through education.”

Kevin, Judy, Christopher and Stephen W. - Children First Academy of Phoenix - $100

Charity Statement - “Sequoia Schools was founded in 1996 with the intent of working together WITH families in the education of their children in an environment where every child is known by all of the staff in a very positive environment with high academic expectations for all students. At Sequoia Schools we know that young people often do not feel accepted and may fall through the cracks in a large school typical of those found in our communities today. Our first core value is, “We know every child and we exist to meet their needs”. This commitment to each and every child regardless of their background sets Sequoia apart in the educational community. This core value is reflected in our family of schools which includes the most diverse representation of students of any charter school in the country.

Sequoia Schools has adopted four CORE Values that ensure we always place the needs of the child first, act in a kind and courteous manner to all, lead our schools by agreement, and continuously strive for excellence. These were established in 2011.”

Monty E. - Kiva.org - $250

Statement - “This empowers people to create a sustainable income and better life.  You can donate or lend, to date all of my loans have been repaid or are regularly paid!  It is also is fun to see your small businesses succeed.”

Marie Wu - Amnesty International - $400

Statement - “Amnesty International is an organization that is incredibly close to my heart.  It's an organization focused on human rights, that works independently of any government, political ideology, economic interest or religion. The topic of human rights is one that I feel very passionately about. I never did get around to discussing it with Austin, which is something I regret now. Nevertheless, knowing Austin's character, I believe it is something he would have cared about as well.”

Emily S. - Unicef - $333

Statement - “So basic survival is left and this is a tough one. Originally I thought to make a donation to the homeless or otherwise needy children of Chicago and am still very happy to do this, particularly if you know of an effective method of reaching them. But UNICEF was running a television advert the other day asking for £3.00 for bankets for the child refugees of the Syrian crisis. It struck me that the remaining third would buy quite a lot of blankets (or shoes, coats etc) I think that knowing that so many children are warmer because of the 12 days of Austin's Christmas would be a very positive thing. The UK government is matching uk donations pound for pound so I would ask you to do this via www.unicef.org.uk  unless the US site is doing similar and it is the Syria Winter Appeal”

Katie H. - The Gate Program (Miami, FL) - $300

Statement - “Gate is an intensive semester long program for juveniles with non-violent weapon crimes (possession of a weapon, pretty much). It was started by a RN unit coordinator, Mimi, from a trauma unit in a Miami hospital. Mimi hated seeing so many young males dying or becoming disabled for life as a result of gang related violence, and like any good RN, understood the important of treating a disease by prevention. Mimi has the young men fill out toe tags in a morgue with their information, self catheterization, and caregiving techniques taught to families of disabled gun-violence survivors. Those are just the reality scare tactics that Mimi likes to use in the beginning. What the program is REALLY based on is life skills. Gate classes focus on improving coping skills, teaching the importance of healthy friendships and relationships, and illustrates boundary-setting between the male participant and his friends and family members who pressure him into gang affiliation or other violence. Gates's values are centered on helping juveniles understand that they are worthy of a happy and safe life. Most of the peer mentors who teach in this program have gone through the program themselves, offering an incredibly understanding mentorship experience. I was so impressed by this program because it was everything that Sarah's and my camp, Workshop, was trying to be.”

Elizabeth D - Spektral Quartet - $250

I'd like half the donation to go to the Spektral Quartet, whose cellist Russ Rolen played at Austin’s memorial in Chicago, http://spektralquartet.com. These four wonderful string players tackle the most imaginative of contemporary music, including music written by young composers. Their energy is evident from the way they phrase it on their donations page in relation to why to give to them: "Because at our concerts, there is no secret handshake or required uniform. Because our programs invariably include the paid commissions of world premieres by extraordinary young composers, creating new additions to the string quartet canon. Because we believe training and inspiring the next generation of chamber musicians and concertgoers is as vital as performing on stage. Because our projects propel music far beyond the concert hall.” As of Austin’s last year in Chicago, they are artists in residence at the University. We brought them here because we knew they would inspire students like Austin.

Stacey A, Don and Nellie R - Albuquerque Youth Symphony Orchestra - $500

We would love to support the Albuquerque Youth Symphony Program in Austin's name. This program provides an opportunity for young people in the greater Albuquerque area to participate in music ensembles in an exciting and focused environment. Having played in large ensembles ourselves, we know that the exhilaration that comes with this opportunity is unlike any other experience. In Austin's memorial service, Aenea shared a story about Austin's decision to return to the cello: though he had quit because he felt he could not do the music justice, he realized that gaining enjoyment and understanding through playing was justice enough. We hope that students in youth orchestras can learn this same message: that honoring the music is not about hitting all the right notes, but about the enjoyment and understanding one gains in the process.

spring. I knew from Facebook that her daughters have received help from them, and that she took part in a half marathon to raise money for the charity. So when I asked a friend, who is a social worker, about charities and the first thing she said was “Winston's Wish is a great little charity.” it felt like serendipity. I don't need to tell you why this is a worthwhile and fitting cause.. In response to my email to them, they replied that they will use my donation for support and resources for four bereaved children at a residential weekend. They will work with difficult, everyday and special memories using clay and other things and create a memory box.  I would like to donate approximately a third to them.”

Mark M - Feed My Starving Children - $500

Charity Statement - “Feed My Starving Children is a non-profit Christian organization committed to feeding God’s children hungry in body and spirit. The approach is simple: children and adults hand-pack meals specifically formulated for malnourished children, and we ship these meals to nearly 70 countries around the world.”

David G. - Project Exploration - $1000

Statement - "Science was never far from Austin's and my conversations, and both of us chose to pursue lives contributing to scientific understanding. Because of their devotion to science education in the Chicago Area, I would like to select Project Exploration to receive one of the 12 days' donation. Project Exploration is a nonprofit science education organisation that works with schools in the Chicago area to promote education in science. Many of their activities include fieldwork outings and labs that expose students to science firsthand, something that Austin believed was vital to scientific understanding. The organisation is reflective of Austin's life in several ways. Project Exploration, which has received numerous awards including the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring, was founded by paleontologist Paul Sereno and educator Gabrielle Lyon. Paul Sereno is a professor at the University of Chicago and his wife, Gabrielle Lyon, was born in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and later attended the University of Chicago where she received her bachelor's and master's degrees in history. The organisation has helped thousands of students find inspiration in science through field trips to places like the Chicago Botanical Garden and also by bringing scientists and engineers to classrooms to meet with students and discuss future science-related careers. A study by the University of California–Berkeley found that 95 percent of its participants had graduated from high school, and 60 percent of those who went on to college are pursuing, or have earned, degrees related to science and math. I think Project Exploration is an amazing organisation that is pursuing values Austin believed in his entire life. 12 Days of Austin's Christmas will help this program continue to inspire students around the Chicago area."

John V - $773.00 to SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence)

Statement - "Considering how much I was enjoying Carl Sagan, and how much Carl Sagan’s awe for the universe and its phenomena reminded me of Austin, I wanted to donate to something Carl-Sagany. Through the Sagan Foundation I found SETI and its Carl Sagan Center (http://www.seti.org/carlsagancenter). Though SETI has been popularized in Sagan’s book Contact for probing the night sky with radio telescopes to detect signals from other civilizations, SETI researchers do much more than idly twiddle their thumbs and look for unnatural patterns in radio waves (such as strings of prime numbers). The Sagan Center is engaging multiple astrobiological/ astrochemical projects, including investigating the “Chemistry of Life”, which I thought would be up Austin’s alley.

One day, for whatever reason, I was telling Austin about a hypothesis I had read on Wikipedia called the “panspermia hypothesis”, which proposes that certain life-forms can survive the cold vacuum of space and travel on asteroids to seed life on new worlds (and that therefore life on Earth may have originated from elsewhere, or life could have spread from Earth to elsewhere). I couldn’t remember the name of the hypothesis at the time, and when I sent Austin the link to Wikipedia’s article he wrote:

“I had certainly heard of exogenesis, but panspermia is a novel concept to me. The idea that life (or at least the kind we're used to) originated in only one place has a definite appeal, considering what a low-probability event it seems to be. But there seems to be quite a bit of hand-waving involved in explaining in detail how it would get from one place to the other without being destroyed”. The typical Austin interest and warranted skepticism still makes me smile. It’s definitely one of the more interesting hypotheses for the spread of life that’s being actively investigated by the scientific community- recently a paper came out http://arxiv.org/pdf/1108.3375v1.pdf stating that when fragments of Earth are ejected into space following collisions with asteroids, these fragments can travel to not only Venus but even as far as Mars or Jupiter. Life on Mars has always been a possibility that fascinated astronomers/astrobiologists- how ironic if the Curiosity rover finds some lowly bacteria grazing on Mars to only later discover (DNA sequencing?) that these are Earth bacteria!!- but even that result would be exciting-!"