Explore Planetary and
Solar Systems Science at LPL
Welcome to the Lunar and Planetary Laboratory
Coronavirus Information
Until further notice, the University of Arizona, in accordance with the guidelines recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention encourages all employees to work remotely. Our offices in the Kuiper, Sonett, and Drake Buildings are closed to the public, but you can reach the Lunar and Planetary Laboratory, Monday–Friday 8am-5pm, at 520-621-6963.
Brine Migration and Impact‐Induced Cryovolcanism on Europa
Research by LPL Graduate Student Joana Voigt and Associate Professor Christopher Hamilton provides a novel explanation for how pockets of salty water can form in the icy shell of Jupiter’s moon Europa and erupt when freezing.
Life on Ancient Earth and Alien Planets: UArizona to Lead NASA Astrobiology Projects
Two of the eight interdisciplinary research teams selected by the NASA Astrobiology Program to inaugurate its Interdisciplinary Consortia for Interdisciplinary Research program are located at the University of Arizona. Led by Betül Kaçar and Dániel Apai, the teams were selected from a pool of more than 40 proposals.
Where Rocks Come Alive: OSIRIS-REx Observes an Asteroid in Action
While studying asteroid Bennu up close, NASA's OSIRIS-REx spacecraft witnessed periodic outbursts of material being kicked up from the surface. A dedicated observation campaign revealed details of the activity and the processes likely causing it.
Statement on Diversity
LPL strives to address inherent problems that exist within planetary science, and academia in general. LPL is at the forefront of planetary and space sciences, and as such must stand as an ally to and in solidarity with people of color, immigrants of all statuses, women, people with disabilities, LGBTQIA+ people, and all those who intersect with these groups. We strongly believe that the science and knowledge we pursue every day is a human pursuit strengthened through the participation of these historically minoritized groups.
Science can succeed only if there is diversity—diversity of ideas, of perspectives, and of individuals.
Research Focus Areas
Pursuing interdisciplinary research spanning the breadth and depth of planetary science.
Spacecraft Missions and Instrumentation
Exploring the Universe as investigators on spacecraft mission and instrumentation teams.
Public Education and Outreach
Faculty, staff, and students engage with diverse communities.
HiRISE
We have a simple philosophy: HiRISE is “the people’s camera” because we believe that knowledge about Mars belongs to everyone.
Arizona/NASA Space Grant
The Arizona/NASA Space Grant Consortium , headquartered at LPL, contributes to the nation's science enterprise by implementing research, education and...
The Art of Planetary Science (TAPS)
The Art of Planetary Science is an annual art exhibition run by UA's Lunar and Planetary Laboratory that celebrates the beauty and elegance of science.