Planetary geologists study the geology of planets, moons, and comets, using techniques from other fields of geology to examine their composition, structure, and geological features. They map surfaces, investigate impact craters and planetary atmospheres, and analyze data from space probes to learn more about these celestial bodies. A doctorate in the subject is required for a career in this niche profession.
A planetary geologist studies the geology of planets other than Earth and its satellites. The field, also known as astrogeology or exogeology, is closely related to traditional geology but focuses on topics such as a planet’s internal structure and volcanic and surface activity. A planetary geologist might examine samples recovered from space missions or meteors that collide with Earth’s surface. Photographs and other data about comets, moons and planets sent by probes are also interesting for the planetary geologist. Producing accurate planetary and lunar maps and making inferences about the possibility of life on other planets are two of the many goals of planetary geological research.
All celestial bodies such as planets, moons and comets have scientifically significant geological features. For example, the tallest mountain in the solar system is on Mars and there are pockets of ice frozen in craters on Mercury. Data on these features is collected in a variety of ways, including via a telescope, samples taken by astronauts, and photos and data from space probes. Careful mapping and investigation of these geological features can reveal a lot about how a body formed, how its geological composition compares to Earth’s, and whether or not there was or can be life there.
A planetary geologist uses techniques from other fields of geology, such as geochemistry and geophysics, to study the composition and structure of the geological features and composition of other planets and their satellites. Physical analysis of samples and data and photographs are the main sources of information. This research can reveal why a planet is a certain color, if there is or was water and if there is any volcanic activity on the surface. For example, Mars is red because the planet’s surface is covered with iron oxide which is also carried into the atmosphere.
An important task for a planetary geologist is to map the surface of a planet or one of its satellites. Space probes return high-definition photographs of the surface that reveal craters and other features such as mountains and valleys, as well as colors and textures. High resolution orbital photographs can be combined with 3D modeling to enhance the surface image and reveal minute details. Evidence of striations that fall down crater slopes during spring and summer on Mars can help a planetary geologist make inferences about the presence of liquid rather than just frozen water. Liquid water provides a better environment for life than water in a frozen state.
In addition to mapping, a planetary geologist may also focus on impact craters and planetary atmospheres. Impact cratering is a primary geological process that shapes planetary surfaces and can form many geological features. A geologist must distinguish between craters caused by volcanic activity and those caused by the impact of a foreign body. Planetary atmospheres can reveal a lot about differences in gravitational forces, but they also shape planetary surfaces via wind, frost and precipitation.
A career as a planetary geologist requires a doctorate in the subject. As this is a niche profession within geology, only a small number of institutions offer advanced degrees in this field. Most planetary geologists in the United States are employed by universities, the Astrogeological Science Center of the Unites States Geology Survey, and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. They conduct research and create planetary and lunar maps that highlight everything from evidence of past water concentrations to impact craters and volcanic activity.
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