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Planetary Science

Planetary Science

Study how planets form, evolve, and sustain the possibility of life through interdisciplinary coursework and hands-on research.

Planetary Science at a Glance

  • 2 Programs of Study

  • 11 Faculty

  • 6 Specialized Labs

Planetary Science brings together the perspectives and methods of Astronomy and Earth and Environmental Sciences. Students can explore the field through an interdisciplinary undergraduate minor or add a planetary science concentration to an eligible Wesleyan M.A. or B.A./M.A. program.
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Research

Wesleyan researchers combine telescope observations, planetary image analysis, laboratory experiments, field studies of Earth analogues, and computational modeling to investigate planetary systems near and far. Students may contribute to work on exoplanets and protoplanetary disks, meteorites and cosmochemistry, the geology of Mars and Venus, remote sensing, astrobiology, and the limits of life.

Van Vleck Observatory

Van Vleck Observatory has merged scientific education with meaningful research for more than a century. Our professional-quality facilities, telescopes, and public outreach activities empower students, faculty, and visitors to expand their horizons.

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