Disciplines & Professions: Astrogeology
Short: Astrogeology is the science devoted to studying the origin, composition, structure and history of the planets and their moons. (USGS - Astrogeology Research Program)
Longer: Planetary geology, alternatively known as astrogeology or exogeology, is a planetary science discipline concerned with the geology of the celestial bodies such as the planets and their moons, asteroids, comets, and meteorites. The study of these rocks is similar to Earth-based geology.
Eugene Shoemaker is credited with creating the Branch of Astrogeology (now called the Astrogeology Research Program) within the U.S. Geological Survey. He made important contributions to the field and the study of impact craters, Lunar Science, asteroids, and comets.
The Visitor Center at Barringer Meteor Crater near Winslow, Arizona includes a Museum of Astrogeology. (Wikipedia)
U.S. Geological Survey - Astrogeology Research Program
The mission of the USGS Astrogeology Research Program is to establish and maintain geoscientific and technical expertise in planetary science and remote sensing to perform the following tasks:
- Scientifically study and map extraterrestrial bodies,
- Plan and conduct planetary exploration missions, and
- Explore and develop new technologies in data processing and analysis, archiving, and distribution.
Visit the U.S. Geological Survey Astrogeology Research Program for more information and links to information of interest.
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Planetary geologist and NASA astronaut Harrison "Jack" Schmitt collecting lunar samples during the Apollo 17 mission. (Source: Wikipedia.)
Featured Resource
Gazetteer of Planetary Nomenclature
The Gazetteer of Planetary Nomenclature is a joint effort between: International Astronomical Union (IAU) National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) USGS Astrogeology Research Program (USGS-ASP) Working Group for Planetary System...
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USGS Astrogeology Research Program - Hot Topics
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