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Planetary Science

The Society’s strategic science theme on planetary science sees the Society direct its gaze upwards, beyond the earth beneath our feet, towards the lesser explored corners of our universe. Planetary science seeks to answer some of life’s biggest questions - why are we here, how did life evolve, and are we alone?

The properties of rocks, dust, gas and other matter which allow us to understand the formation and development of planets, moons, stars and perhaps other life in our universe. Space also offers scientists a novel platform from which to study the Earth; using remote sensing and satellite technology to obtain high resolution spatial and temporal data detailing our planet’s state and rate of change.

This theme will seek to engage students and the public in geology as seen through the lens of other planets and rocky bodies.


Relevant resources


Download our Education Resources

rocks in the solar system poster     rocks in space factsheet   make your own solar system pack image of various planets 
 Rocks in the Solar System poster    Rocks in space factsheet    Build a solar system

Spacescapes Exhibition

staff from the geological society talking with members of the public at the exhibition  woman with long dark hair laughing and holding a meteorite at the exhibition  two people discussing the exhibition and looking at the images of mercury and jupiter 

Virtual Tour

Visit the Spacescapes virtual tour and take a journey through the Solar System, including images of the Perseverance rover on Mars, impact craters on the Moon, mountains on Pluto and geysers on Enceladus.

spacescapes virtual tour


Upcoming events


Your search for events returned the following 3 results.

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Planetary Science Workshop - How big and how many accretionary CM chondrite parent bodies were there?

12 July 2024 - 24 January 2025

Venue: Hybrid In person at Burlington House and Virtual via Zoom

  • Workshop
  • Hybrid

Planetary Science School Workshops

04 - 28 February 2025

Venue: The Geological Society, Burlington House, London

  • Workshop
  • In-Person

Space Week Family Fun Days

20 - 21 February 2025

Venue: The Geological Society, Burlington House, London

  • In-Person
Showing 1 to 3 of 3 results