The CPS houses expertise in understanding planets from their deep interiors, through their surfaces and atmospheres, to their space environment. This expertise is complemented by world leaders in astronomy, terrestrial and solar science, life and chemical sciences.
About us
The CPS is a centre of excellence for research in planetary sciences, based on a collaboration between three UCL departments and one at Birkbeck, University of London.
Study
There are many opportunities for undergraduate and postgraduate study and research within the Centre's UCL and Birkbeck departments.
Research
Astrobiology, Atmospheres and magnetospheres, Exoplanets, Planet Interiors and Surfaces.
CPS Events
CPS News
UCL scientists supporting NASA mission to find Earth-like worlds
UCL researchers are investigating how a UK-led team could design and build one of the core instruments on a flagship NASA mission, the Habitable Worlds Observatory.
30 Oct 2025
ExoClock Unlocked 2026: Citizen Science Opportunity
ExoClock Unlocked is a citizen-science project led by CPS colleagues in support of the ESA Ariel exoplanet space mission. All those interested are welcome to get involved! Deadline 15th December.
16 Oct 2025
Summer Meeting Student Presentation Awards 2025
Congratulations to the winners of our Student Presentation Awards for their talks and posters presented at our Summer Meeting on 24th June!
16 Jul 2025
Seminars
APEX Seminars
The Astrobiology and Planetary Exploration (APEX) seminar series resumes in the next academic year, October 2025. Details of the forthcoming APEX programme will be announced nearer the time.
Find out more