Researchers and students gathered last Friday 7 August at the Macquarie University Art Gallery for the launch of the Macquarie University Planetary Research Centre.

The new Centre brings together top researchers in Earth sciences, astronomy and astrophysics, engineering and environmental sciences to address the big problems of planetary formation and evolution, and the application of planetary and space research to remote planetary monitoring.

“Planetary and space sciences have shed light on some of the biggest questions we have, and more and more we utilise space technologies in everyday life,” said Associate Professor Craig O’Neill, Director Macquarie University Planetary Research Centre. “From GPS systems in our phones to satellite communications, to remote monitoring of the Earth’s environment, the applications of planetary research continue to grow.”

In addition to the everyday interaction humans have with space technologies, satellite and drone technology is allowing scientists to monitor changes to the Earth in real time, including those associated with climate change, human land use, and even ground motion associated with seismic activity.

The Planetary Research Centre supports multidisciplinary undergraduate degrees, projects for Master of Research degrees and opportunities for doctorate students.