Research
Research at the Center for Planetary Science and Exploration covers a broad spectrum of planetary science. CPSE researchers study, among others, geology, physics, astronomy, engineering, microbiology, plant science and data science. Collectively we explore how planets form and evolve over time, what processes have shaped their surfaces in the past and continue to act today, how environments change, whether they could support life, and how we can explore them safely and effectively. Many of these projects connect directly to ongoing and upcoming spacecraft missions by NASA and international agencies.
Image courtesy of NASA
Earth Sciences, Planetary Geology and Remote Sensing
CPSE members study the geological past and present of planetary bodies. Research projects include planetary formation and interior evolution, volcanism, meteorite impact processes, surface processes, tectonics, and planetary environments. Members conduct geologic mapping of the Moon, Mars, and Venus using radar, optical, thermal, and hyperspectral data, and investigate planetary interiors through high-pressure and high-temperature experiments as well as analysis of meteorites and lunar samples. Ancient Martian environments, paleoclimate, and habitability are studied by sedimentology and stratigraphy to interpret lake and fluvial systems, thermophysical studies of dunes, machine learning, remote sensing, and rover data.
CPSE members also study Earth to better understand other planets. To help interpretation of remote sensing data, members conduct analog fieldwork in Australia, Antarctica, and other extreme environments. Additionally, researchers use remote sensing to study Earth’s environmental change, vegetation dynamics, and land-use patterns.
Astrophysics & Cosmochemistry
Here, we explore fundamental questions about the origins of planets and the solar system. Atomic nuclei originate during the lives and deaths of stars. CPSE researchers study these processes by simulating nucleosynthesis in stars, novae, and supernovae. The products of these events built stars and planets, including the planets, moons, asteroids, and dust in our own solar system. Understanding the composition of small bodies and dust is also a central focus of CPSE member research.
CPSE members model how galactic cosmic rays, solar particle events, and the secondary particles they generate interact with spacecraft components, electronics, potential habitats, planetary surfaces, and astronauts. By calculating radiation doses and understanding how particles interact with different materials, we can better assess exploration risks and develop shielding strategies or identify safer landing locations on planetary surfaces. Radiation also drives chemical processes in planetary atmospheres and on surfaces. For example, CPSE researchers examine how energetic particles influence the chemistry of Titan’s atmosphere.
Engineering & Instrumentation
Another aspect of planetary exploration is spacecraft testing and operating, as well as the development of scientific instruments. CPSE members analyze structural dynamics, vibration control, nonlinear behavior, and health monitoring to ensure that vehicles and instruments survive launch, landing, and long-term operation. Some researchers also develop, and test electronic systems and circuits designed to function under extreme pressures, temperatures, and radiation levels.
CPSE also collaborates with the Student Space Technology Association (SSTA). The SSTA project scope covers rockets, robotics, hypersonics, and space systems. The student-run team operates out of a 2,700 sqft workshop and has built the largest collegiate rocket test stand in the U.S.
Plant Sciences
Long-duration crewed space missions will benefit from freshly grown food and CPSE researchers study how fresh crops can be grown efficiently in controlled environments, such as space-habitats. Researchers investigate how light intensity, duration, and spectrum, as well as temperature, CO₂ levels, nutrients, and plant growth regulators, affect the growth of vegetables, leafy greens, and culinary herbs. In addition to general physiology and production research, they analyze how to improve flavor, nutritional value, and visual quality. These studies aim to improve taste, appeal, yield, and overall sustainability.