My research project is genetically mapping and characterizing the microbial population of Wind Cave National Park, SD as an extreme subterrain environment and possible analog for extraterrestrial life. I am focused on archaea because many known species within this domain have the ability to survive in extreme environments. Our knowledge of archaea and their distribution in the environment is severely lacking when compared to any other domain of life. Using genetic sequencing and analysis, I am creating a genetic map of the microbes in the cave relating environment to species distribution and evolution. Currently, I am preparing to create phylogenetic relationships between microbes from sample locations throughout the cave system. I will also be characterizing the metabolic capabilities of these microbes to understand how they can survive in this extreme environment. This project aligns with the NASA Science Directorate of promoting scientific research enabled by space exploration to better understand our universe, including the possiblity of life elsewhere. By studying life on our planet, like is found in Wind Cave, we can better understand the requirements for life. Wind Cave provides an opportunity to study life in an extreme environment similar to extraterrestrial conditions. Low nutrient environments like those in the cave describe early Earth where life was able to persist and may also describe extraterrestrial conditions, so my project is applicable to the search for life beyond Earth.