Home
Research Areas
Earth and Planetary Science

Earth and Planetary Science

Earth and Planetary Science is field of study comprised of multiple approaches including astrobiology, atmospheric science, geology, oceanography, and others. Together the various specialties study the origin, composition, structure, processes, and evolution of Earth and other planets within our solar system. These scientists employ principles from physics, chemistry, and biology to understand the past, present, and future states of celestial bodies from their inner composition to the surrounding atmosphere. Some of the major focuses include natural hazards, resource management, and the potential for life on other planets.

Astrobiology

This area of study investigates the origins of planets, as well as the evolution, distribution, diversity and future of life within the universe. By studying the life cycle and mass extinctions on Earth and by searching for habitable environments in our solar system, astrobiologicts aim to answer the myster of whether there are over life forms elsewhere in the Milky Way.

Exoplanetary Astronomy

This field of astronomy is the study of planets that orbit stars outside of our solar system. Varying in size, composition, and orbit (even some that drift through space without a star), more than 5,600 extrasolar planets have been confirmed. Astronomers are developing new methods to find exoplanets, using telescopes to search for Earth-like worlds, and studying how planetary systems form and evolve.

Geomorphology

This scientific filed studies landforms, from their formation to the processes that shape and transform the terrain of Earth and other planets, and how they may change in the future. The study includes forces that shape planets from within such as tectonic activity, erosion, and the results of wind, glacial ice and water. It also takes into account how human activity has impacted landscapes over time.

Explore our other research areas

Astronomy and Astrophysics

Space Technology, Materials and Medicine

Earth and Planetary Science

Astrobiology

Exoplanetary Astronomy

Geomorphology

Explore our other research areas

South Texas Space Science Institute

Brownsville

Hours

STSSI Contact

Find us on Social Media

LIKE. FOLLOW. SUBSCRIBE. ADD.