Objective:
This study was designed to investigate the status of astrobiology education in Iranian schools and to assess students’ knowledge, attitudes, and interest toward this emerging interdisciplinary field. Astrobiology, which explores the possibility of life beyond Earth, can play a significant role in fostering scientific thinking and enhancing students’ motivation to learn science.

Objective: This study aimed to assess the level of knowledge, attitudes, and interest of Iranian elementary and lower secondary school students towards astrobiology concepts and to conduct a qualitative analysis of the existing gaps and deficiencies in their scientific understanding.

Method: The research was conducted using a mixed-methods (quantitative and qualitative) approach. Quantitative data were collected through grade-specific researcher-designed questionnaires administered to 320 students. Qualitative data from the open-ended responses in the questionnaires were analyzed using thematic analysis and coded in three stages (open, axial, and selective).

Findings: The findings indicated a very high level of interest among students (78% in elementary and 81% in lower secondary school) in areas related to space and extraterrestrial life. However, their level of knowledge and scientific understanding was assessed to be very limited, and it was found that their information is primarily shaped by general and non-scientific media. Furthermore, major weaknesses were observed in the areas of critical thinking, scientific reasoning, and understanding interdisciplinary connections.

Conclusion: The existence of a deep gap between students' innate interest and the lack of structured education in the field of astrobiology presents an educational opportunity for Iran's science education system. Accordingly, a revision of educational content, teacher empowerment, and the development of innovative learning resources are essential for the effective integration of these concepts into the science curriculum.