
Planetary Astronomy
About
The planets of the solar system, along with their satellite systems, are our only accessible example of the end state of planetary system development. Observational study of these worlds provides us insight into how systems of planets form, the role of migration, bombardment and stellar interaction in their evolution, and the range of potential sites of habitability. Planetary astronomy at LPL targets planets on multiple levels ranging from observations of surface features and composition, through the dynamic and chemical processes in their atmospheres, and ultimately to the interface of their magnetic and atmospheric interaction with the solar wind. These measurements are obtained from a combination of in situ robotic probes, a global network of ground and space-based observatories, and customized instrumentation developed by LPL scientists and engineers. The results are then interpreted in coordination with local laboratory based and theoretical facilities to improve our understanding of the solar neighborhood.
Faculty
Planetary Astronomy Faculty

Gilda Ballester
Research Professor (Retired)
Exoplanets, Planetary Astronomy, Planetary Atmospheres
Caitlin Griffith
Professor Emeritus
Astrobiology, Exoplanets, Planetary Astronomy, Planetary Atmospheres, Planetary Formation and Evolution, Planetary Surfaces, Titan & Outer Solar System
Pierre Haenecour
Assistant Professor
Astrobiology, Cosmochemistry, Planetary Astronomy, Small Bodies
Walter Harris
Professor
Planetary Astronomy, Planetary Atmospheres, Small Bodies, Solar and Heliospheric Research
Robert (Bob) McMillan
Research Professor (Retired)
Asteroid Surveys, Planetary Astronomy, Small Bodies
Ilaria Pascucci
Professor
Astrobiology, Exoplanets, Planetary Astronomy, Planetary Formation and Evolution
Vishnu Reddy
Professor
Cosmochemistry, Planetary Astronomy, Planetary Surfaces, Small Bodies, Space Situational Awareness
George Rieke
Regents Professor
Planetary AstronomyOther Researchers
Planetary Astronomy Researchers

Arin Avsar
PTYS Graduate Student
Exoplanets, Planetary Astronomy, Planetary Formation and Evolution
Jason Corliss
Research Scientist/Senior Staff Scientist
Planetary Astronomy, Planetary Atmospheres, Small Bodies, Solar and Heliospheric Research
Erich Karkoschka
Research Scientist/Senior Staff Scientist
Planetary Astronomy, Planetary Atmospheres, Planetary Surfaces, Titan & Outer Solar System
Lily Robinthal
PTYS Graduate Student
Astrobiology, Exoplanets, Planetary Astronomy, Planetary Atmospheres
Stephen Schwartz
DCC Associate Staff Scientist (Asphaug)
Orbital Dynamics, Planetary Astronomy, Planetary Surfaces, Small Bodies, Space Situational Awareness
Jingyu Wang
PTYS Graduate Student
Astrobiology, Exoplanets, Planetary Astronomy, Planetary Atmospheres
James Windsor
Postdoctoral Research Associate
Astrobiology, Exoplanets, Planetary Astronomy, Planetary Atmospheres