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
Saturn’s magnetic bubble is lopsided compared to Earth’s
Saturn's magnetic shield is asymmetrical compared to Earth’s, suggests a new study involving UCL researchers, and this is likely a result of its fast rotation and the heavy material it pulls round it
17 Apr 2026
UCL astrophysicist and chemist honoured in Blavatnik Awards
Dr Paola Pinilla (Mullard Space Science Laboratory at UCL) has been named as a laureate and Dr Michael Booth (UCL Chemistry) as a finalist in the 2026 Blavatnik Awards for Young Scientists in the UK.
16 Mar 2026
UCL leads the way in UK heat of global space challenge
UCL students have impressed judges with their space ideas and innovations at this year’s global space challenge Act in Space 2026.
16 Mar 2026
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