Planetary Systems Branch (Code SST)

Observational, theoretical, and experimental research on the origin and evolution of planetary systems
Hubble observations that discovered rings of Uranus

Hubble observations that discovered rings of Uranus

How common are planetary systems around nearby stars? Which conditions are necessary for planet formation? Are there other Earth-like planets capable of harboring life? What forms of life can be sustained in different physical and chemical environments?

Solar nebula models have revolutionized conceptions of solar system formation

Solar nebula models have revolutionized conceptions of solar system formation

We have world-class expertise in planetary geology and geophysics, planetary atmospheres and climate, and planetary disks and rings.

Solar nebula models have revolutionized conceptions of solar system formation.

Our scientists are at the very forefront of many observational and theoretical studies.

Extensive Mars research efforts include global circulation modeling of the atmosphere, and detailed studies of the geology, chemistry and mineralogy of surface materials.

Ames scientists also provide science and engineering leadership in sub-surface exploration, with a demonstrated capability in developing and testing drills.

Branch scientists conduct a large array of Mars analog field campaigns in arid sites such as Antarctica, the Atacama desert in Chile, California’s Mojave desert, and the Rio Tinto region of Spain, making critical tests of technologies and practices that will be integrated into future missions.

Branch scientists are conducting science and engineering concept studies for future missions including Mars Scout concepts like the Mars Polar Drill and Mars Meteorology Orbiter.

 

The Planetary Systems Branch is primarily in N245, with some laboratory facilities in N239.

Branch Chief, SST:
Dr. Jeff Hollingsworth
Email: Jeffery.L.Hollingsworth@nasa.gov
Phone: 650-604-6275

 



 

MARTE Drilling and Sampling System

MARTE Drilling and Sampling System

 


Instruments such as the Mars Oxidant Analyzer (MOI) for the ESA 2011 ExoMars Mission show that we have an international reputati

Instruments such as the Mars Oxidant Analyzer (MOI) for the ESA 2011 ExoMars Mission show that we have an international reputat
SST participation in current and future Mars Missions

SST participation in current and future Mars Missions
SST

SST
SST2

SST2
Deep Impact mission graph

Ground-based observations by our scientists helped to make the Deep Impact mission a success and led to three papers in Science

  

 Highlights

LADEE

LADEE UVS Flight Instrument Enters Flight Acceptance Testing

The LADEE UltraViolet Spectrometer (UVS) passed its Pre-Environmental testing Review (PER) and was cleared for flight acceptance testing. Over the next 35 days the UVS instrument will be put through a series of tests, including EMI/EMC, random vibration and thermal vacuum testing, before being delivered to the LADEE Project for integration into the LADEE spacecraft.
First ever Mars and the Mojave Festival in Death Valley National Park

First ever Mars and the Mojave Festival in Death Valley National Park

Death Valley Natl. Park encompasses some of the most extreme environments on the planet. For decades, planetary scientists have come here for research and instrument testing. We are organizing the first ever Death Valley National Park planetary analog festival, titled the Mars and the Mojave Festival – Exploring Extremes on Earth and Beyond. This pioneer three-day public event, scheduled for March 9-11, 2012 is co-sponsored by NASA Ames Research Center, the Death Valley National Park, the SAM Team at NASA Goddard, and the SETI Institute.
CHaberleSpaceSuit

Testing Science Performance in a Planetary Surface Space Suit

Performing scientific research work in a space suit is one of the major challenges of future human exploration of Planetary surfaces.

SST-Beyer

Titan Airplane Mission Concept Study published

Several Ames scientists and engineers were co-authors on the following 
concept study paper:
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