What field of science investigates ideas about a possible extra terrestrial origin of life?

Astrobiology is the field of science that investigates the possibility of extraterrestrial origins of life. It explores the conditions necessary for life to exist beyond Earth, examines extreme environments where life might thrive, and studies the potential for life on other celestial bodies. Astrobiologists also analyze the chemical precursors to life and the potential for life to arise from non-biological processes in the universe.