Planetary Scientist

Planetary Scientists are really far out! They conduct research to understand the origins, evolution, and geologic processes on other planets in the solar system. These space scientists participate in missions that explore the surfaces of these planets with a remotely controlled space vehicle. Planetary scientists also study the atmospheres, interiors, magnetic fields, orbits, and other processes that occur on the planets of our solar system! Essentially, planetary scientists research any process that occurs in the solar system anywhere other than Earth. Employers of planetary scientists include the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the U.S. Geological Survey. To become a planetary scientist, a doctorate is required.