Information gain as a tool for assessing biosignature missions

Abstract We propose the mathematical notion of information gain as a way quantitatively assessing value biosignature missions. This makes it simple to determine how mission depends on design parameters, prior knowledge and input assumptions. demonstrate utility this framework by applying plethora case examples: minimal number samples needed trend in occurrence rate signal function an environmental variable, much cost should be allocated each class object; relative impact false positives negatives, with applications Enceladus data best combine two signals; optimum tradeoff between resolution coverage search for lurkers or other spatially restricted signals, application our current state solar system bodies; deduce habitability boundary; optimal amount money spend different aspects; when include additional instrument mission; lifetime; follow/challenge predictions model. In case, we generate concrete, quantitative recommendations optimizing design, selection and/or target selection.