Branches of space sciences:
– Astronomy:
– Astrophysics deals with the physics of the universe
– Subfields include computational astrophysics and plasma astrophysics
– Solar physics studies the Sun and its interactions
– Galactic astronomy focuses on our galaxy and others
– Extragalactic astronomy studies objects outside our galaxy
– Cosmology:
– Physical cosmology studies the origin and evolution of the universe
– Chemical cosmology examines the chemical composition of matter
– Quantum cosmology uses quantum field theory to explain phenomena
– Planetary Science includes the study of planets and moons
– Astrochemistry studies molecules in the Universe
– Interdisciplinary studies of astronomy:
– Astrobiology studies biological systems in the universe
– Space biology looks at how spaceflight affects living systems
– Astrobotany studies plants in space environments
– Archaeoastronomy analyzes ancient astronomies
– Space archaeology studies human artifacts in outer space
– Techniques used in astronomical research:
– Theoretical astronomy involves mathematical modeling
– Astrometry studies the position of objects in the sky
– Photometry measures the brightness of celestial objects
– Spectroscopy studies the spectra of astronomical objects
– Observational astronomy observes celestial objects using telescopes
– Astronautics:
– Involves the science and engineering of spacefaring
– Subset of Aerospace engineering
– Focuses on space technology for activities beyond Earth’s atmosphere
– Includes spaceflight, space exploration, and Earth observation
The following outline is provided as an overview and topical guide to space science:
Space science – field that encompasses all of the scientific disciplines that involve space exploration and study natural phenomena and physical bodies occurring in outer space, such as space medicine and astrobiology.