Planetary Sciences Community Meetings Calendar
Organized by LPI/USRA *
December 2015
3 |
Polar Regolith Workshop Without Walls,
Virtual meeting
NASA's Solar System Exploration Research Virtual Institute (SSERVI) exists to integrate solar system science with the exploration needs of the human spaceflight program to explore space beyond low-Earth orbit. Those efforts may involve measurements that address strategic knowledge gaps, the development of mission concepts, and the identification of space resources that enhance exploration activities. A specific request for assistance has emerged from HEOMD that addresses plans to evaluate, and potentially exploit, ices and other volatile elements in the polar regions of the Moon. With that purpose in mind, SSERVI is organizing a 1-day virtual workshop that will bring together our current body of knowledge of the regolith properties in Permanently Shadowed Regions (PSRs) that might affect the trafficability of robotic rovers, such as NASA's Resource Prospector mission. A few keynote presentations will help frame the issues involved and summarize recent published results with contributed presentations and discussion periods rounding out the program. |
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14-18 | AGU Fall Meeting, San Francisco, California | |
15-16 |
International Symposium on Moon 2020-2030: A New Era of Coordinated Human and Robotic Exploration,
ESTEC Noordwijk
The ESA space exploration strategy and the ISECG Global Exploration Roadmap underline the strategic significance of the Moon in a global space exploration endeavour. The international vision for lunar exploration calls for a new era of coordinated human and robotic missions enabled by broad international cooperation. The ISS program has demonstrated the importance of a robust international partnership for ISS development, assembly, operations, and effective utilization. Now is the time to build on this partnership and open it to new partners to continue the journey beyond low Earth orbit. The symposium "Moon 2020-2030" will be a key step in advancing the international approach for lunar exploration together with key players from agencies, academia, and industry. |
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28-Jan 8 |
Exoplanets: 33rd Winter School in Theoretical Physics,
Jerusalem, Israel
Through systematic lectures on the foundations of planetary origin, evolution and structure, this School will provide the background needed to explore and interpret the remarkable detection of thousands of exoplanets around other stars. This sets the stage for a more detailed understanding of their properties and system architecture in the coming decade. |
January 2016
4-8 | American Astronomical Society 227th Meeting, Kissimmee, Florida | |
8 |
Evolving Worlds: A Story of Planetary Evolution and Bi-Stability (Matthew Weller, Rice University),
Lecture Hall
Growing geodynamic and geochemical evidence suggests that plate tectonics may not have operated on the early Earth, with both the timing of its onset and the length of its activity far from certain. This work uses coupled 3D mantle convection and planetary tectonics simulations to explore evolutionary paths and planetary tectonic regimes. Early in the geologic lifetime of a terrestrial planet, high mantle temperatures favour stagnant-lids. As radiogenics decay, an initial stagnant-lid may yield into a high temperature mobile-lid state. The transition from an initial stagnant-lid is a function of yield strength, in addition to both internal and surface temperatures. For intermediate values of internal temperature, multiple stable tectonic states can exist. In these regions of parameter space, the specific evolutionary path of the system has a significant role in determining its tectonic state. This indicates that multiple modes of convection and surface tectonics can potentially operate on a single planetary body at different times in its evolution, as consequence of changing internal parameters, surface temperatures, and differing thermal histories. The implications of terrestrial worlds that can alternate, and be offset between multiple tectonic states over giga-year timescales will be discussed. |
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12-15 |
4th ELSI Symposium: Three Experiments in Biological Origins,
Tokyo, Japan
We will summarize the formation and early environment of Venus, the Earth and Mars and place them into context relative to each other, and to a lesser degree to other planets and exoplanets. We aim to determine what conditions on Earth were favourable for the onset of chemical cycles that eventually led to a thriving biosphere, and whether our neighbours may have once harboured such conditions. Why did Earth succeed where the others failed? |
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17-22 |
Bridging Disciplinary Perspectives to See Further Into Life's Origins,
Galveston, Texas
The research required to understand life's origins occurs at a point where multiple scientific disciplines meet. Chemists, biologists, physicists, geoscientists, planetary scientists, astronomers, meteoriticists, mathematicians and computer scientists are among those contributing to progress. Combining the findings of each discipline into a composite narrative produces multidisciplinary science. The origins research community has come far in this endeavor. More challenging is to extend these connections into true interdisciplinarity, wherein the insights of one research community influence the interpretation of data and questions being asked by others. The forthcoming Gordon Research Conference will explore this transition, from multidisciplinarity to interdisciplinarity. It will visit the traditional array of topics, from LUCA to the non living universe. It will emphasize, however, speakers whose work crosses traditional disciplinary boundaries. It will create spaces where scientists from different disciplines are challenged to build bridges of knowledge between their respective areas of expertise. The GRC will integrate with the preceding GRS (Gordon Research Seminar) by asking the latter to report forwards where they see important, emerging connections - in presentations, discussion panels and questions to the conference. |
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27-29 | 14th Meeting of the NASA Small Bodies Assessment Group (SBAG), Monrovia, California |
February 2016
5 |
The History of Qarabawi's Camel Charm: A Meteoritic Artifact (Rhiannon Mayne, Texas Christian University),
Lecture Hall
Meteoritics, the study of meteorites, is usually focused on the scientific value of a sample; for example, what can it tell us about the formation of our Solar System, the planets, how Earth formed? It is rare for the cultural value of meteorites to be the focus, although there are a few examples. The Camel Charm is a meteoritic artifact acquired by the National Meteorite Collection at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History in 1974. It has never been studied. The Charm is made from an iron meteorite with an average Ni-content of 7.8%, which is identical (within error) to a previously identified meteorite called Wabar. It is possible that the Camel Charm represents a piece of Wabar that was traded to the Ababda in Egypt from its original home in Saudia Arabia. The Camel Charm is a unique meteorite from an ethnographic standpoint, with a very interesting history. It is valuable addition to the National Meteorite Collection. |
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8-12 |
The Astrophysics of Planetary Habitability,
Vienna, Austria
This conference addresses astrophysical factors and processes that are pivotal for the information, sustainability, and evolution of habitable conditions on planets from the era of planet formation in disks to the end of the main sequence life to the host star. |
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10-11 | COSPAR/ISECG Workshop on Science Enabled by Human Exploration, Paris, France | |
17-19 |
Solar-System Symposium in Sapporo 2016,
Hokkaido, Japan
The Solar-System symposium in Sapporo (3S 2016) will focus on the birth and early evolution of the Solar System from a cosmochemical perspective. The symposium will be comprised of oral and poster sessions with free discussion time. Read more: http://ws2016.webnode.jp/ |
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19 |
Effects of mechanical, rheological and tectonic controls on the formation of giant radial dike systems on Venus: Insights from finite element modeling. (Nicolas LeCorvec, Lunar and Planetary Institute),
Lecture Hall
Radial dike systems are intriguing magmato-tectonic features occurring on Venus, Earth and Mars. For such systems to form, massive quantities of magma ascending from the mantle must be redirected laterally at shallow depths within the lithosphere over several hundred kilometers. Observations have shown different patterns from continuous fanning to subswarms of subparallel dikes. As magma ascends towards the surface, accumulation in reservoirs situated at various depths within the lithosphere is often coupled with the growth of a volcanic edifice at the surface. The stability of magma reservoirs, and therefore the generation of magmatic intrusions, is influenced by their shape, their location, the tectonic environment and the mechanical and rheological properties of the lithosphere. Based on previous work investigating the role of flexure on the stability of magma reservoirs, we developed new models to test: 1- the role of a mechanically-layered lithosphere; 2- the role of extensional stresses; and 3- the ellipticity of magmatic reservoirs on the formation of these radial dike systems. To explore these scenarios, we used the COMSOL Multiphysics finite element package allowing us to develop: 1- 2D axisymmetric elastic models made of mantle and crustal components; 2- 3D elastic models in which an extensional stress was applied; and 3- elliptical magmatic reservoirs embedded within 2D axisymmetric elastoplastic models. Different tectonic environments were studied: lithostatic, upward flexure due to uplift consistent with a plume-derived origin and downward flexure due to the load of a volcanic edifice. Mechanical layering within the lithosphere impacts the location of failure along a magmatic reservoir and the type of magmatic intrusions. We observe that shallow magma reservoirs in an upward flexure environment tend to produce radial dikes. Regional Extensional stresses in 3D tend to focus the location of failure along the magma reservoir, therefore limiting the formation of continuous fanning pattern. Finally, the elliptical shape of a magma reservoir favors continued expansion and increasing ellipticity, because failure at the midsection requires less overpressure as the ellipticity of the reservoir increases. These results highlight new physical and structural controls on the formation of radial dike systems on Venus. Specifically, we can infer 1- potential crust/mantle ratios within the Venusian lithosphere; 2- the extensional stress regime linked to the formation of specific radial dike systems; and 3- the mechanisms of magma chamber growth linked to the formation of calderae observed in conjunction with radial dike systems on Venus. |
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22-24 |
Workshop 'Europa Initiative' 2016,
Toulouse, France
Aims to answer main scientific questions related to Europa, one of Jupiter's moons, through the conception and delivery of several instruments / vehicles designed to take place aboard the NASA Europa Mission spacecraft by 2020's. |
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22-25 |
Nuclear and Emerging Technologies for Space (NETS) 2016,
Huntsville, Alabama
NASA is currently developing capabilities for robotic and crewed missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. Strategies that implement advanced power and propulsion technologies, as well as radiation protection, will be important in accom-plishing these missions in the future. NETS serves as a major communications network and forum for professionals and stu-dents working in the area of space nuclear technology. Every year it facilitates the exchange of information among research and management personnel from international governments, industry, academia, and the national laboratory systems. To this end, the NETS-2016 meeting will address topics ranging from overviews of current programs to methods of meeting the challenges of future space endeavors. |
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22-25 | VIII Taller de Ciencias Planetarias, Porto Alegre, Brasil | |
26 |
Crustal structure of the South-Pole Aitken Basin from GRAIL and LOLA (Peter James, Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory at Columbia University),
Lecture Hall
The Moon's South Pole-Aitken basin (SPA) is the largest confirmed impact basin on the Moon, and it delineates one of the ~4 major lunar terranes. The gravity and topography data from GRAIL and LOLA respectively provide an opportunity to study the structure the crust and mantle under SPA. Long-wavelength gravity and topography are sensitive to the uppermost several hundred kilometers of the lunar interior, and are consequently sensitive to mass heterogeneities in the lunar mantle. Short wavelength gravity and topography data primarily reveal the bulk densities of the crust. Remote sensing instruments such as the Moon Mineralogy Mapper have detected the presence of anorthosites, pyroxenes, and olivines in various parts of the basin, but ambiguities remain: it is not known whether surface compositions are representative of the crust as a whole, and absolute abundances of mafic components are poorly constrained. By correcting for the distribution of porosity in the lunar crust, I use gravity and topography to estimate the grain densities of various crustal features in SPA. In particular, the rings and peak-rings of basins superimposed on SPA offer an opportunity to sample compositions of materials that originated deep within SPA’s impact melt sheet. |
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28-Mar 1 |
The 2nd Conference on Astrophysics and Space Science (APSS 2016),
Beijing, China
This conference will cover issues on astrophysics and space science. It is dedicated to creating a stage for exchanging the latest research results and sharing advanced research methods. |
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29-Mar 1 |
Europa M5 Initiative Meeting #3,
Madrid, Spain
Europa M5 initiative emerges to propose to ESA and NASA a mission complement, that will: – Provide the best possible science return – Prove to be technically flyable – Be well within the budget limits of an ESA M-class mission (550 M€) |
March 2016
4 |
Shock Chemistry of Simple Sugars: Production of Biologically Relevant Compounds in Impacts (Nicolle Zellner, Albion College),
Lecture Hall
The identification of over 100 different sugars, sugar acids, amino acids, and other biologically relevant molecules in the Murchison meteorite has spurred interest in the field of prebiotic chemistry. Questions regarding the origins of these compounds are many. For example, are they native to the meteorite? If so, how were they formed? Could they have been formed in the shock event that occurred when the meteorite fell to the Earth? In this talk, I will describe our recent experiments where we explore the reactivity of two simple sugars, glycolaldehyde and dihydroxyacetone, catalyzed by mineral surfaces. I will also present the results of laboratory impact experiments where these sugars and mineral matrices were subjected to reverberated shocks from 5 GPa to >25 GPa. Our experiments show that the production of larger molecules (with up to six carbons) is accelerated under the conditions that simulate impacts by extraterrestrial objects. Scenarios for the production of these molecules via impact delivery by asteroids or comets will be explored. |
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7-11 |
Protoplanetary Discussions,
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
In this conference, we invite observers from all wavelength regimes to share their latest results with modellers from the thermo-chemical and hydrodynamic communities in order to foster collaboration across this exciting and rapidly expanding field. |
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18 |
Solar System Observations with the Arecibo Planetary Radar System (Patrick Taylor, Arecibo Observatory),
Lecture Hall
Arecibo Observatory in Puerto Rico houses the largest and most sensitive single-dish radio telescope and the most active and powerful planetary radar system in the world. The radar system on the 305-m William E. Gordon telescope has been used to study objects in the Solar System since its construction in 1963, from Mercury out to Saturn and all solid bodies in between. I will discuss the history of planetary radar at Arecibo and its applications to Solar System astronomy with specific attention paid to observations of near-Earth objects. Radar observations of near-Earth asteroids are critical for identifying those objects that may present a hazard to Earth and providing detailed physical characterizations in terms of size, shape, spin, and surface-property (reflectivity, polarization, geologic features and sometimes composition and density) information. In fact, radar investigations of many near-Earth objects are roughly equivalent in terms of their science content to space flyby missions, but at a cost orders of magnitude less making radar arguably the most powerful ground-based method for post-discovery characterization of the near-Earth object population. |
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19-20 |
Microsymposium 57 — Polar Volatiles on the Moon and Mercury: Nature, Evolution, and Future Exploration,
The Woodlands, Texas
In this Microsymposium, we will explore our current knowledge of these materials and seek to identify the key questions, goals, and objectives in order to underpin and motivate future exploration. We will review current exploration plans, including the U.S. Resource Prospector, Russian Luna 26 and 27, and ESA BepiColombo missions. |
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21-25 | 47th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference (#lpsc2016) *, The Woodlands, Texas |
April 2016
4-8 | International Venus Conference 2016, Oxford, United Kingdom | |
8 |
Royal Astronomical Society Meeting on Space Resources,
Burlington House, Piccadilly, London
The RAS in the UK will hold a Specialist Discussion Meeting on the theme of "The use of extraterrestrial resources to help facilitate space science and exploration." Note that, for consistency with the scientific interests of the RAS, the emphasis will be on how space resources may facilitate/accelerate scientific discovery (e.g. by enabling the construction of large space observatories, robotic missions to the outer Solar System or beyond, and lunar and planetary research stations) rather than a narrow focus on ISRU techniques. At this (early) stage we would be interested in hearing from colleagues who may be interested in presenting a talk or a poster at this meeting. |
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8 |
Proximal Volcanic Deposits and an Evolving LROC-Perspective of a Dynamic Moon (Julie Stopar, Arizona State University),
Lecture Hall
Unprecedented high-resolution coverage (0.5-2 m scale images) and derived topography (2-5 m scale DTMs) from the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter Camera (LROC) continue to transform our understanding of lunar geology. Both impact craters and volcanic constructs are well preserved on the Moon, and LROC Narrow Angle Camera (NAC) images reveal new details of their morphology and distributions. In this talk, I will focus on my investigations of several volcanic landforms about which little detail was previously known and discuss what questions yet remain in their understanding. For example, small-area conical deposits emplaced proximal to source vents (0.5-3 km in diameter) are relatively common and widely dispersed in the maria. NAC images resolve layering in the cones that I interpret as interbedded cinder, spatter, and lava. Dark draping layers on the summits are likely late-stage spatter facies or lava remnants. Cones in the Marius Hills are larger and steeper on average than those found elsewhere, a possible consequence of increased volatiles and/or larger eruption volumes. Other morphologies signify variations in explosiveness and volatile content during or between eruptions. Cone and flow stratigraphies in the Marius Hills connote repeated eruptions from a single, long-lived source, perhaps spanning 3 billion years, suggesting persistent, regional-scale volcanism. These and other landforms are contributing to an emerging view of a more dynamic and younger Moon. |
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11-15 |
15th Biennial ASCE International Conference in Engineering, Science, Construction and Operations in Challenging Environments,
Orlando, Florida
This conference brings professionals together from across the world to discuss issues related to engineering, science, construction and operations in the extreme environments on Earth and in space. The conference is sponsored by the Aerospace Division of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) and administered by Missouri University of Science and Technology. |
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13-16 |
Horizon 2020 EURO-CARES WP3 Meeting - Designing a European Extraterrestrial Sample Curation Facility,
Vienna, Austria
This meeting is focused on infrastructures, storage, and curation of samples. |
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15 |
Volatile Reservoirs in the Outer Solar System (Silvia Protopapa, University of Maryland),
Lecture Hall
Over the past decade, the synergy of ground- and space-based observations, modeling efforts, and laboratory studies have highlighted vital information on the composition of the worlds in the outer solar system. I will discuss some of the latest results from New Horizons at Pluto and contrast them with emerging trends seen in other trans-Neptunian objects and comets — the primitive remnants of the planetesimal disk from which the outer planets formed. I will demonstrate how characterizing the composition of these objects improves our understanding of the primordial solar nebula and the accretion processes that led to the formation of the planets. |
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20 |
The Fine Structure of the Hawaiian Mantle Plume Images the Earth's Deep Mantle (Dominique Weis, University of British Columbia),
Lecture Hall
The origin, scale and source of mantle heterogeneities have been the subject of debate since their first documentation through the study of ocean island basalts (OIB) 50 years ago (Gast et al., 1964). One of the most common approaches is to analyze the geochemistry of oceanic basalts brought to the surface by mantle plumes, sampled either on oceanic islands or by drilling oceanic plateaus. Improved analytical precision for radiogenic isotopes, combined with statistical data treatment, has provided the finer resolution necessary for identifying small-scale geochemical variations in OIB that relate to shallow and deep plume structure. Another key factor is the acquisition of continuous datable sequences of lavas (DePaolo & Weis, 2007). The Hawaiian mantle plume represents >80 Myr of volcanic activity in a pure oceanic setting and with a high magmatic flux. Identification of two clear geochemical trends (Loa and Kea) among Hawaiian volcanoes (Tatsumoto, 1978; Abouchami et al., 2005) in all isotope systems (Weis et al., 2011), together with the recurrence of similar isotopic signatures at >350 kyr intervals identified in the HSDP (Hawaii Scientific Drilling Project) cores, have implications for the dynamics and internal structure of the Hawaiian mantle plume conduit (Farnetani & Hofmann, 2009, 2010) and source (Farnetani et a., 2012). In this review talk, I will present a compilation of recent isotopic data for samples from shield lavas on Hawaiian volcanoes, focusing specifically on high-precision Pb isotopic data (MC-ICP-MS or DS, TS-TIMS) integrated with Sr, Nd and Hf isotopes. All isotopic systems indicate source differences for Loa- and Kea-trend volcanoes that are maintained throughout the ~1 Myr activity of each volcano and that extend back in time on all the Hawaiian Islands (~5 Ma). There is also a NE-SW gradient in isotopic compositions. The Loa-trend source is more heterogeneous in all isotope systems than the Kea-trend source by a factor of ~1.5. When projected to the CMB, many mantle plumes occur at the edges of large low shear velocity provinces (LLSVZ) (e.g., Ritsema et al., 2004). The Hawaiian mantle plume overlies the boundary between typical Pacific lower mantle on the Kea side and a sharp, seismically defined, layer of apparently different ULVZ material that occurs on the Loa side of the plume. The geochemical differences between the Kea and Loa trends reflect preferential sampling of these two distinct sources of deep mantle material at the core-mantle boundary. Similar indications of preferential sampling at the edges of the African LLSVP are found in Kerguelen and Tristan da Cunha basalts in the Indian and Atlantic oceans, respectively. The anomalous low-velocity zones at the core–mantle boundary store geochemical heterogeneities that are enriched in recycled material (EM-I type) and are sampled by strong mantle plumes such as Hawaii and Kerguelen. To wrap up, I will present new data for the Northwestern Hawaiian Ridge (i.e. for 42 myr of activity of the Hawaiian plume) and discuss the conditions of appearance of the Loa component and its impact on plume magmatic flux. |
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21-22 |
The Asteroid-Meteorite Connection,
Los Angeles, California
New spectrographic observations of asteroids hint at complex internal structures. Advances in geochemistry and cosmochemistry suggest complicated geological histories of meteorite parent bodies. This workshop will strive to reconcile observations of asteroids and comets with detailed geochemical and cosmochemical data for meteorites with the goal of achieving a more complete understanding of the formation and evolution of planetesimals in the early solar system. The workshop will bring together geochemists, planetary scientists and astronomers to discuss this 'asteroid-meteorite' connection. |
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25-28 |
From Star and Planet Formation to Early Life,
Vilnius, Lithuania
This meeting will cover a multitude of scientific subjects ranging from star and planet formation until the early evolution of life on Earth. It aims to bring together astronomers, physicists, chemists, geologists and biologists as well as academics and students from humanities to discuss the most important questions and newest findings in all related disciplines. Special sessions will be devoted to comets, meteorites, prebiotic chemistry and early life. |
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29 |
Water, Hydroxyl, and Ice in the Asteroid Belt (Andrew Rivkin, Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory),
Lecture Hall
Water-and Organics-rich objects are of intense interest to the planetary science community, and are high-priority targets for spacecraft visits and sample return. However, such visits are rare commodities, and remote sensing via telescopic observations are necessary to obtain the context required for understanding spacecraft measurements. Over the past decade, we have observed hundreds of objects at wavelengths diagnostic for water and organic material. I will present our current understanding of water, hydroxyl, and ice on asteroids, including the ways these objects are and aren't represented in the meteorite collection. |
May 2016
4 |
Internal structure of Comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko probed by the CONSERT radar on ROSETTA (Jeremie Lasue, IRAP-OMP),
Hess Room - Brown Bag
During the successful landing of Philae on 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko, the Comet Nucleus Sounding Experiment by Radiowave Transmission (CONSERT) provided the first opportunity to investigate the internal structure of a comet nucleus. The data unambiguously showed that propagation inside the smaller lobe of the nucleus was achieved (Figure) [1]. CONSERT also reduced the size of the uncertainty of Philae’s final landing site down to approximately 21 by 34 square meters [1, 2]. From the shape of the received signals, we can infer that the smaller lobe of 67P is fairly homogeneous on a spatial scale of tens of meters. The average permittivity obtained from the propagation delay is about 1.27, suggesting that this region has a volumetric dust/ice ratio of 0.4 to 2.6 and a porosity of 75 to 85% [1]. From comparison with laboratory measurements made on meteorites and ice mixtures, the dust component permittivity value may be comparable to that of carbonaceous chondrites. Simulations of the signal propagation is consistent with a possible near-surface gradient of the dielectric constant decreasing with depth [3]. The very low dielectric constant values and homogeneity of the nucleus as constrained by CONSERT data indicates that the comet interior is primitive and has not been heavily processed. The data does not show the presence of cometesimals or large voids at the scale probed (about 10 meters), providing information about its formation and evolution in the early solar system. Figure: Propagation of signals from Philae on the nucleus to Rosetta on its orbit. References: [1] W. Kofman, et al., Science 349, aab0639-1 (2015) [2] A. Hérique, et al., PSS, 117, 475-484 (2015) [3] V. Ciarletti, et al., A&A aa26337-15, (2015) |
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16-19 |
Biosignature Preservation and Detection in Mars Analog Environments (#biosignature2016) *,
Lake Tahoe, Nevada
Our objective is to focus strategies to detect a range of possible biosignatures on Mars in different categories of geologic settings by assessing the attributes and preservation potential of various biosignatures in different Mars-analog habitable environments on Earth. We are seeking a better understanding of three broad classes of ancient environments known to exist in the martian geologic record: 1.Lacustrine and deltaic sediments; 2.Near-surface chemical sediments (including hydrothermal and pedogenic); or 3.Deep crustal rocks (including hydrothermally altered). |
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17-19 |
Humans to Mars Summit,
Washington, DC
Explore Mars is proud to present the Humans to Mars Summit 2016 (#H2M2016), the comprehensive Mars exploration conference that addresses the major technical, scientific, and policy challenges of getting humans to Mars, as well as how such missions can have positive impacts on STEM education, American Competitiveness and other important collateral issues. |
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17-19 |
International Workshop About Comets in Honor of Hans Rickman,
Paris, France
This three-day meeting will cover both the dynamical and physical properties of comets, with a full day focused on the most recent results obtained from the Rosetta mission. |
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18-19 |
4th European Lunar Symposium,
Trippenhuis (Dutch Royal Academy of Arts and Sciences), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
This meeting will build upon the success of previous European Lunar Symposiums (ELS) held in Berlin (2012), London (2014), and Frascati (2015). The fourth ELS will be held under the umbrella of the European nodes of the Solar System Exploration Research Virtual Institute (SSERVI). A global surge in lunar exploration has thrust lunar science and exploration back into the limelight once again. Current interests in the exploration of the Moon range from astronomical, astrophysical, geological, commercial, resource utilization, and strategic considerations, to its use as an outpost for future human exploration of the Solar System. One of the main aims of this meeting is to bring together the European scientific community interested in various aspects of lunar exploration. In addition, lunar experts from countries engaged in launching lunar missions are also invited to attend this meeting. The format will consist of both oral and poster presentations divided into four broad themes of: “Science of the Moon,” “Science on the Moon,” “Science from the Moon,” and “Future Lunar Missions." |
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18-19 | 68th Annual Meeting of the Rocky Mountain GSA, Moscow, Idaho | |
22-26 | Japan Geoscience Union Meeting, Chiba, Japan | |
24-25 |
5th Interplanetary CubeSat Workshop,
Oxford, United Kingdom
iCubeSat 2016, the 5th Interplanetary CubeSat Workshop, will address the technical challenges, opportunities, and practicalities of interplanetary space exploration with CubeSats. The workshop provides a unique environment for open wide ranging practical collaboration between academic researchers, industry professionals, policy makers, and students developing this new and rapidly growing field. |
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24-26 | New Views of the Moon 2 (#newviews2) *, Houston, Texas | |
27-30 |
Fourth Beijing Earth and Planetary Interior Symposium,
Beijing, China
The aim of the Symposium is to bring scientists in different disciplines—experimental, observational, theoretical and numerical—together for further understanding the origin, structure, and variations of the Earth’s and planetary magnetic fields. |
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29-Jun 3 |
Brave New Worlds: Understanding the Planets of Other Stars,
Como, Italy
This year's focus will be on exoplanet science. |
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29-Jun 24 |
Water in the Solar System and Beyond,
Rome, Italy
Water plays an important role in the origin and chemical development of comets, asteroids, icy moons, and planets including our own Earth. It is also a necessary ingredient for life as we know it. Recent space missions, remote sensing, and laboratory research have led to considerable growth in our understanding of the role of water in the solar system and in cosmochemistry. Expert faculty will direct a comprehensive four-week course of lectures, presentations, and hands-on projects in the beautiful setting of the Papal villas outside Rome. It will be an unforgettable experience! |
June 2016
1-3 |
2nd Asteroid Impact Deflection Assessment (AIDA) International Workshop 2016,
Nice, France
The workshop offers a forum for the community to keep abreast with the advances of the AIM and DART studies. |
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1-3 |
First Annual Conference of the Society for Planetary Impact Studies,
Brainerd, Minnesota
To study impact events that occurred on Earth, planetary bodies through the solar system, as well as asteroids, comets, and meteors that cause these events. |
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2-4 | Next-Generation Suborbital Researchers Conference, Broomfield, Colorado | |
5-8 | 53rd Annual Meeting of the Clay Minerals Society, Atlanta, Georgia | |
7-9 |
7th Joint Meeting of The Space Resources Roundtable (SRR) and the Planetary and Terrestrial Mining Sciences Symposium (PTMSS) *,
Golden, Colorado
Given the renewed interest on ISRU activities for the Moon, Mars, and asteroids from space agencies around the globe, the international private sector, academic institutions, and from recent legislation introduced for space-resource commercial exploitation, this meeting will provide a unique and timely forum for discussion of the near- and long-term opportunities for space resources. |
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9-10 |
3rd International Symposium on Lunar and Planetary Science,
Wuhan, China
Recent space missions to our solar system bodies including the LRO, Kaguya, M3, Chang’E series, Dawn, Hayabusa, Rosetta, Stardust-NExT, Cassini and others have greatly advanced our knowledge about the Moon and the solar system. This international symposium aims at the international academic exchange on the topics of processing, analysis, research and applications of lunar and planetary exploration data. The scope of this symposium includes, but not limited to, lunar and planetary compositions; lunar and planetary topography and gravity; lunar and planetary surface processes; lunar and planetary impact; lunar and planetary chronologies; origin and evolution of the Moon and planets; planetary atmospheres; meteorites and cosomochemistry; asteroids and comets; planetary magnetic fields and plasmas; exolar planets: detection, characterizations and habitability; and future deep space missions. |
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11-12 |
International Planetary Probe Short Course,
Laurel, Maryland
Short course – Destination Venus: Science, Technology and Mission Architectures. |
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12-16 | 228th American Astronomical Society Meeting, San Diego, California | |
13-15 |
2016 Annual Laboratory Astrophysics Division of the AAS Meeting,
San Diego, California
The fourth LAD meeting will be devoted to the interplay between laboratory astrophysics and other fields in astronomy, planetary science, and related sciences. The meeting will be held jointly with the 228th Meeting of the AAS. |
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13-15 |
Planetary Geologic Mappers Annual Meeting *,
Flagstaff, Arizona
The Planetary Geologic Mappers Annual Meeting 2016 will be held from June 13-15 at the U. S. Geological Survey in Flagstaff, AZ. Principal investigators with currently-funded NASA geological mapping projects are required to attend in order to present the status of mapping efforts and obtain guidance for map process, formatting, submission, and technical review. Attendance by scientists and students interested in cartography, geological mapping, and map-related topical science is encouraged. |
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13-17 |
International Planetary Probe Workshop (IPPW-13),
Laurel, Maryland
Delivering space vehicles to other worlds is one of humankind’s most challenging and rewarding ventures. The 2016 International Planetary Probe Workshop (IPPW-13) will bring together engineers, technologists, scientists, mission designers, space agency leaders, and students from around the world for a compelling, weeklong collaboration focused on exploring solar system destinations via in situ missions. |
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14-15 |
Cometary Science After Rosetta,
London, United Kingdom
Results from the European Space Agency’s Rosetta mission to Comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko are leading to a revolution in our understanding of these ancient bodies, and hence the conditions prevalent in the early Solar System. This meeting will report on all aspects of the mission's ground-breaking discoveries, placing them in the context of cometary science as a whole. |
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16-17 |
Cometary Science After Rosetta: Future Directions,
London, United Kingdom
Further review the current status of the field of cometary science following the keenly-anticipated results of Rosetta, with the aim to engender focused, collaborative studies of these fascinating objects. |
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20-21 |
Martian Gullies and Their Earth Analogues,
London, England
The aim of this second workshop would be not only to bring together the plethora of researchers involved in gully-research on Mars, but also to add a wider perspective by including contributions from those studying analogous environments on Earth such as geomorphologists, sedimentologists, glaciologists, hydrologists, climatologists, soil scientists, and mineralogists/petrologists. |
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21-23 |
Binaries in the Solar System IV,
Prague, Czech Republic
The goal of the workshop is to bring together various ideas on the detection, characterization, formation, and implications of binary and multiple objects among the NEO, main-belt, Trojan, Centaur, TNO populations. |
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21 |
Experimental Investigation into the Darkness of Mercury’s Surface (Kathleen E. Vander Kaaden, University of New Mexico, Earth and Planetary Sciences),
Lecture Hall
Prior to the return of data from the MErcury Surface, Space ENvironment, GEochemistry and Ranging (MESSENGER) spacecraft, the planet Mercury was thought to be depleted in volatile elements primarily due to its close proximity to the sun. Initial analyses conducted during flybys from the Mariner 10 mission confirmed the presence of atmospheric H, He, and O. Furthermore, ground-based discoveries enhanced our knowledge about Na, K, and Ca in the atmosphere as well as polar volatiles found in radar-reflective deposits. Although there was some evidence for the presence of volatiles on the surface of the planet and in the exosphere, it was not until the return of data from MESSENGER that it was discovered just how volatile rich Mercury is. We use recent results from the X-Ray Spectrometer and Gamma-Ray Spectrometer that were onboard MESSENGER to investigate the darkness of Mercury’s surface through high pressure and high temperatures experiments. Our results suggest the dark mercurian surface is likely due to a primary floatation crust on Mercury composed of graphite, produced after a global magma ocean event. Furthermore, given the highly reducing nature of Mercury (ΔIW-3 to ΔIW-7), the large core of the planet likely contains Si as the dominant light element. With higher abundances of Si in the core, our experimental investigation suggests that the core of Mercury would have saturated in carbon at low carbon abundances. Since carbon solubility in silicate melts is exceptionally low under highly reducing conditions, its exclusion from the silicate portion of the planet would have been conducive to formation of a graphite floatation crust. |
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26-Jul 1 | 26th Goldschmidt Conference, Yokomama, Japan | |
26-Jul 1 |
Extrasolar Planets: Their Formation and Evolution,
Bad Honnef, Germany
The goal of the school is to provide a solid pedagogical introduction into the general field of Planetary Formation with emphasis on the special requirement of extrasolar planets. In the school the planet formation process will be presented starting from the very early phase of dust agglomeration up to the assembly of fully grown planets. Building upon the ideas on how to form the Solar System, the focus of the school will lie on the main theoretical foundations that have emerged after the detection of extrasolar planets. There are 14 lectures given by international experts in the field. In little projects the participants will have the opportunity to to work on particular problems in the field. Additionally, the participants are encouraged to present their own work in the form of posters. |
|
27-29 |
Titan Aeronomy and Climate Workshop,
Reims, France
To bring together international experts from different fields of Titan's research in order to have an overview of the current understanding, and to determine the remaining salient scientific issues and the actions that could be implemented to address them. |
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28-30 | 15th Meeting of the NASA Small Bodies Assessment Group (SBAG), Laurel, Maryland |
July 2016
3-8 |
Astronomical Society of Australia Annual Scientific Meeting,
Sydney, Australia
This will be the 50th anniversary of the formation of the Astronomical Society of Australia. |
|
3-8 |
Exoplanets Conference,
Davos, Switzerland
The astronomical community is in an expansion phase of exoplanet science, especially with several American and European space missions (TESS, CHEOPS, PLATO, JWST) on the horizon (2017 to 2024). The new Exoplanets conference series aims to consolidate all aspects of exoplanet science and strike a balance between: 1.Exoplanet theory, observations and instrumentation; 2.Exoplanet discovery and atmospheric characterisation; 3.Transiting and directly imaged exoplanets; 4.Ground- and space-based surveys/missions; 5.American and European participation. We aim to expand upon the “Planets” in the “Protostars & Planets” conference series by shifting the focus to exoplanet science. We expect about 60% of the program to consist of contributed (rather than invited) talks. |
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3-8 | International Symposium and Workshop on Astrochemistry, Campinas, Brazil | |
4-9 |
Planetary Science Short Course in Remote Sensing,
London, Ontario
The main objective of this course is to learn the technical and conceptural basis for applying remote sensing and image analysis to Earth and Planetary science. |
|
8 |
Micro Cold Traps on the Moon (Paul O. Hayne, Geophysics and Planetary Geosciences, Jet Propulsion Laboratory),
Lecture Hall
Recent observations of the Moon and Mercury have confirmed basic theoretical predictions of water ice in cold traps within permanent shadows at high latitudes. However, several important aspects of the theory do not match these observations: Mercury appears to harbor massive ice deposits, whereas lunar volatiles are more dispersed or even absent in some locations; super-volatiles (CH4, CO2, methanol) are found in a surprising location on the Moon; thermal environments are heterogeneous within the permanent shadows, and volatiles do not always “follow the cold”. In this presentation, we will explore the current datasets and illustrate some of these discrepancies. In order to address the problem, I will present a new theory: micro cold traps, which collectively may be important sinks for volatiles on both the Moon and Mercury. Finally, I will show evidence for the existence of micro cold traps and discuss their possible importance for future robotic and human exploration of the Moon and beyond. |
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10-12 |
Astrobiology Australasia Meeting 2016,
Perth, Australia
Contributions in the general fields of astrobiology will be considered but we particularly welcome offers of presentations on the following special themes: Science Outreach and Education in Astrobiology; Space exploration and astronomy, includes SETI; Life signs on Early Earth; Proof of Biogenicity – advances in technology for positive signal returns; Modern analogues of early life |
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11-15 |
4th International HSE Geochemistry Workshop,
Durham, United Kingdom
The 4th HSE workshop is of cross-disciplinary appeal in covering analytical advances, as well as low-temperature and high-temperature geo- and cosmochemistry topics pertaining to HSEs and allied elements. The meeting and related activities will provide opportunities for friendly exchange between scientists of all levels, thus offering the potential for all to accelerate knowledge/technology sharing and explore new observations that advance understanding of key geo- and cosmochemistry questions. Additionally, we anticipate many opportunities for useful new international collaborations to nucleate during the workshop; these will be highly beneficial to continued progress in HSE frontier science and will support overall advances within the geochemistry community, help to create pathways for present and future students, and potentially provide for the early-stages of discussions to commercialise scientific applications for industry. |
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11-15 |
New Directions in Planet Formation,
Leiden, The Netherlands
In the past two decades over 2,000 exoplanets have been discovered with properties and orbital architectures very different from the solar system. Yet the theoretical foundations of planet formation theory still rely on a framework conceived for the solar system. This workshop will focus on new developments in dust coagulation, planetesimal formation, planetary growth, and planetary migration. The goal of the workshop is to critically assess the viability of various theories on planet formation and establish new research directions. |
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12-19 |
2016 NASA Planetary Volcanology Workshop,
Kilauea, Hawaii
Study volcanic features analogous to those on Mars that have been imaged recently by MOC, THEMIS, HRSC, HiRISE, and the MER and MSL rovers, comparing their field appearance to their appearance in remotely-sensed images. |
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17-21 |
Transiting Exoplanets,
Keele, United Kingdom
A conference dedicated to the discovery and characterisation of transiting extrasolar planets. |
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18-19 |
Third International Conference on the Exploration of Phobos and Deimos,
Moffett Field, California
The conference will be an open international forum gathering scientists, engineers, space exploration professionals, and students interested in discussing the status and advancement of the exploration of Mars’ natural satellites, the investigation of other small bodies in relation to Phobos and Deimos, the exploration of Mars itself via its moons, and the importance of exploring these moons for Solar System science. |
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19 |
Lunar and Small Bodies Graduate Conference
((LunGradCon 2016)),
Mountain View, California
Registration is open for the 7th Annual Lunar and Small Bodies Graduate Conference (LunGradCon 2016) to be held on Tuesday, July 19, 2016 at the NASA Ames Research Center, preceding the NASA Exploration Science Forum (ESF). With the expanded interests of the Solar System Exploration Research Virtual Institute (SSERVI), the scope of this year's LunGradCon includes both lunar and small bodies science. LunGradCon provides an opportunity for grad students and early-career postdocs to present their research on lunar and small body science in a low-stress, friendly environment, being critiqued only by their peers. In addition to oral presentations, the conference presents opportunities for professional development and networking with fellow grad students and postdocs, as well as senior members of SSERVI. A limited amount of funding will be provided for travel and lodging costs. The deadline for registration and abstract submission is June 3rd 2016, 11:59 PM PDT. |
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20-22 | NASA Exploration Science Forum, Moffett Field, California | |
22-24 |
Dusty Visions Workshop,
Boulder, Colorado
We plan on having a discussion heavy workshop on the current studies and future direction of cosmic dust research. |
|
24-28 |
2016 Microscopy and Microanalysis Conference,
Columbus, Ohio
Participating at M&M 2016 will allow you to stay abreast of new technologies, learn new techniques, see the latest instrumentation, and most importantly, network with colleagues and make new connections. We hope that you will be able to join us in Columbus for what is certain to be a very exciting and educational meeting. |
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25-29 |
2016 Sagan Exoplanet Summer Workshop,
Pasadena, California
The Sagan Exoplanet Summer Workshops are an annual series of workshops aimed at advancing the communities' scientific and technical understanding of the objectives of the Exoplanet Exploration Program. |
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25-29 |
NASA Planetary Science Summer School,
Pasadena, California
This workshop is designed to prepare the next generation of scientists and engineers to participate in space missions of the future by providing an in-depth, first-hand look at mission design, lifecycle, cost, schedule, and the trade-offs inherent in each. |
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25-Aug 5 |
Summer School in Software Systems for Astronomy,
Hilo, Hawaii
Students will work with existing software tools and current design methodologies. |
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26-29 | Enceladus and the Icy Moons of Saturn (#enceladus) *, Boulder, Colorado | |
27-29 |
Workshop Without Walls: Exoplanet Biosignatures,
Seattle, Washington
Review, frame, and advance the science and technology of remotely detectable biosignatures for the search for life on planets around other stars. |
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28-29 | USGS Integrated Software for Imagers and Spectrometers Hands-On Workshop, Flagstaff, Arizona | |
30-Aug 7 | 41st Scientific Assembly of the Committee on Space Research (COSPAR 2016) - MEETING CANCELED, Istanbul, Turkey |
August 2016
1-4 | The Diversity of Planetary Atmospheres (IV), Squamish, Canada | |
7-12 | 79th Meeting of the Meteoritical Society *, Berlin, Germany | |
15-19 |
The 9th Meeting on Cosmic Dust,
Sendai, Japan
All kinds of cosmic dust such as intergalactic dust, interstellar dust, protoplanetary disk dust, debris disk dust, cometary dust, interplanetary dust, circumplanetary dust, stellar nebular condensates, presolar grains, micrometeorites, meteoroids, meteors, regolith particles, planetary aerosols are the subject of discussion. The meeting is open for any aspects of dust research by means of different methods of studies (in-situ and laboratory measurements, astronomical observations, laboratory and numerical simulations, theoretical modeling, data analyses, etc.). All dust-related topics, for example, the formation of molecules and their reactions on and their desorption from the surface of dust particles, are also welcome. Publishing the proceedings of this meeting as a special issue of a peer-reviewed journal is currently being planned, while paper submission to the proceedings is not obligatory. |
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17-19 |
7th Planetary Crater Consortium Meeting,
Providence, Rhode Island
The 7th Planetary Crater Consortium meeting will be held August 17-19, 2016, at Brown University in Providence, RI. The Planetary Crater Consortium is open to planetary scientists interested in any aspect of impact cratering on solar system bodies, including observational, theoretical, experimental, and numerical studies. The meeting is a combination of invited talks, contributed talks, and open discussion. Abstract deadline is Friday, August 5, 2016. |
|
23-Sep 11 |
Summer School “Volcanism, Plate Tectonics, Hydrothermal Vents and Life”,
Angra Do Heroísmo, Azores, Portugal
The course aims to give participants a thorough introduction into influence of volcanism, plate tectonics on life and the role of hydrothermal vents in the emergence of life. It is co-organised by the European Astrobiology Campus, the Nordic Network of Astrobiology and the COST Action “Origins and Evolution of Life in the Universe”. The summer school, which is held in the picturesque town of Angra de Heroísmo (UNESCO World Cultural Heritage) will include: • Lectures by leading scientists in the field covering a cornucopia of different subjects • Field excursions to geologically interesting sights (volcanic areas, hot springs, lava caves, etc.) • Characterisation of microbesin lava caves and hot springs via Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) • Poster sessions • Participant-led discussions Bursaries including travel grants are available for students and early career investigators affiliated to universities in most European countries. For further information about the summer school please check the website: http://www.nordicastrobiology.net/Azores2016/ Deadline for applications is 15 March 2016 23:59 UTC. |
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27-Sep 4 | 35th International Geological Congress, Cape Town, South Africa |
September 2016
5-9 | 6th International Conference on Mars Polar Science and Exploration (#marspolar) *, Reykjavik, Iceland | |
9-11 |
Meteorites China - Gifts from the Universe,
Kunshan, Jiangsu Province, China
To foster alliances in China towards furthering public awareness, meteorite recovery, curation, and research. |
|
12-14 |
Biosignatures of Extant Life on Ocean Worlds,
Greenbelt, Maryland
The goal of this workshop is to evolve our understanding of the detectability of extant life on ocean worlds, such as Europa and Enceladus. |
|
12-14 |
Linking Exoplanet and Disk Compositions,
Baltimore, Maryland
This workshop will gather scientists working on the compositional characterization of planets and planet-forming regions in protoplanetary disks. Recent and upcoming advancements make it timely to have a round-table conversation among the several communities involved, to join forces in tackling our most compelling questions on the origins of exoplanet diversity. |
|
12-15 |
Evolution of Chemical Complexity: From Simple Interstellar Molecules to Terrestrial Biopolymers,
Liblice, Czech Republic
The conference is part of the COST action ORIGINS (TD 1308) which addresses, using an interdisciplinary approach, three great questions about the origin, evolution, and distribution of life. |
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12-15 | SPICE Training Class, Madrid, Spain | |
13-16 |
Multiple Faces of Interstellar Dust,
Garching, Germany
The workshop aims at bringing together experts from theoretical, observational, and experimental studies of interstellar dust to provide a broad overview of recent findings on dust properties across astrophysical environments, from cold dense clouds to hot ISM, and discuss new constraints from recent FIR/submm and X-ray observations. Dust models derived locally are used as a template in extragalactic studies. |
|
14-15 |
NRC Committee on Astrobiology and Planetary Science,
Irvine, California
This is a webex meeting. |
|
16 |
NEOWISE: Mission Overview and Recent Results (Joseph Masiero, NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory),
Lecture Hall
The Near-Earth Object Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer (NEOWISE) is undertaking an all-sky thermal infrared survey to both discover new near-Earth asteroids and comets, and characterize previously known NEOs. NEOWISE provides simultaneous imaging at 3.4 and 4.6 microns, measuring the thermal emission from NEOs and allowing their diameters to be computed. I will discuss the techniques used for asteroid and comet identification, focusing on the unique concerns for space telescopes, and present an overview of recent results from this data. |
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18-23 |
Joint NASA-NSF Ideas Lab on the Origins of Life,
Cambridge, Maryland
An Ideas Lab is an intensive, interactive and free-thinking workshop on a particular topic, involving up to thirty diverse participants. It aims to stimulate thinking in promising new research approaches and theories aimed at understanding the origin of life. Participants will be expected to engage constructively in dialogue with each other, the facilitators, and the Director and Mentors to develop collaborative research proposals. Collaboration will be encouraged, especially by bringing diverse minds together to embrace this challenge. |
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20-23 |
Half a Decade of ALMA: Cosmic Dawns Transformed,
Indian Wells, California
This international four-day conference will highlight ALMA results at the threshold of the array's fifth year of science operations and bring together researchers from around the world to motivate collaborations for ALMA Cycle 5. Science topics will include all fields of astronomy, from cosmology and galaxies in the distant Universe, nearby galaxies and the Galactic Center, interstellar medium and star formation in our Galaxy, astrochemistry, circumstellar disks, exoplanets, solar system, stellar evolution, and the Sun. |
|
21-22 |
Asteroid Science Intersections with In-Space Mine Engineering,
Luxembourg City, Luxembourg
The goal of this two-day workshop of roughly 30-60 scientists and engineers is to have detailed discussions of the specific properties of asteroids in the context of the engineering needs of space missions with in-space asteroid utilization. |
|
22 |
Tracing the Earliest Stages of Solar System History with Calcium-Aluminum-Rich Inclusions Found in Meteorites (Levke Kööp, University of Chicago),
Lecture Hall
Calcium-aluminum-rich inclusions (CAIs) found in primitive meteorites are the oldest dated solids that formed inside the Solar System. Their isotopic signatures facilitate a view into the nucleosynthetic inventory of the Solar System before such signatures were diluted by mixing processes in the disk. In this talk, I will present data from a multielement isotopic study of a large number of hibonite-rich CAIs recovered from the Murchison meteorite. The isotopic properties of these CAIs are extremely variable, suggesting that they sampled different nebular reservoirs and possibly different stages in the evolution of the early Solar System. I will discuss relationships found in the dataset and how they relate to long-standing questions such as whether fresh radionuclides like 26Al were injected into the solar nebula late and what the origin of the large oxygen isotopic variations in Solar System materials is. |
|
24-25 |
SoCIA 2016: Social and Conceptual Issues in Astrobiology,
Clemson, South Carolina
SoCIA 2016 is organized as an off-year workshop of the International Society for the History, Philosophy and Social Studies of Biology which gathers scholars from diverse disciplines to explore a variety of conceptual issues within biology generally. The goal of this workshop is to bring together a small group of younger scholars (especially graduate students) and senior researchers in an atmosphere of informal exchange. |
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25-28 |
Exoplanets in the Era of Extremely Large Telescopes,
Pacific Grove, California
Scientists from around the world will gather on California’s Monterey Peninsula to discuss the current and future status of research on exoplanet detection techniques, characterization, system dynamics, and formation mechanisms and time scales, with a view towards the roles of future observatories and instrumentation in these areas. |
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25-28 | Geological Society of America Meeting, Denver, Colorado | |
25-29 |
4th International Serpentine Days Workshop,
Sete, France
Bring together 120 scientists with an interest in the geological, physical, and (bio-)chemical processes of serpentinization and the life it sustains, as well as scientists working on its impact for mineral resources and new energy sources, and the environmental and societal impact of their exploration and exploitation. |
|
26-27 |
The 6th International Workshop on Lunar Surface Applications,
Bellevue, Washington
There are major opportunities for scientists and space entrepreneurs alike to get new hardware and instruments flying relatively soon and at low cost through privately funded platforms. Learn more about the latest technology, and the recent science and business plans that will fuel the Lunar Renaissance and open the Lunar Frontier, as private companies continue their push to explore space. |
|
26-30 | 67th International Astronautical Congress, Guadalajara, Mexico | |
27-30 |
16 European Astrobiology Network Association (EANA) Astrobiology Conference,
Athens, Greece
Sessions will include talks on any astrobiological discipline, which will be thematically distributed in sessions. |
|
28-29 |
The 6th International Workshop on LunarCubes,
Bellevue, Washington
Join the best space scientists, engineers, entrepreneurs, and investors from around the world to discuss, explore, and redefine the technology, collaboration, and commercial strategies required to make the most of LunarCubes, an unprecedented opportunity in space exploration. |
|
30 |
The Initial 41Ca/40Ca Ratios in Two Type A Ca-Al-Rich Inclusions: Implications for the Origin of Short-Lived 41Ca (Ming-Chang Liu, UCLA),
Lecture Hall
In this talk, I will present the new 41Ca-41K isotopic data of two Type A CAIs, NWA 3118 #1Nb (compact Type A) and Vigarano 3138 F8 (Fluffy Type A), from reduced CV3 chondrites. The NWA CAI is found to have carried live 41Ca at the level of (4.6±1.9)×10−9, consistent with the proposed Solar System initial 41Ca/40Ca = 4.2 × 10−9 by Liu et al. (2012). On the other hand, the Vigarano CAI does not have resolvable radiogenic 41K excesses that can be attributed to the decay of 41Ca. Combined with the 26Al data that have been reported for these two CAIs, we infer that the 41Ca distribution was not homogeneous when 26Al was widespread at the canonical level of 26Al/27Al = 5.2 × 10−5. Such a 41Ca heterogeneity can be understood under two astrophysical contexts: in- situ charged particle irradiation by the protoSun in the solar nebula that had inherited some baseline 10Be abundance from the molecular cloud, and Solar System formation in a molecular cloud enriched in 26Al and 41Ca contaminated by massive star winds. That said, more high quality 41Ca data are still needed to better understand the origin of this radionuclide. |
October 2016
6 |
MEPAG Meeting #32,
Pasadena, California
Online only |
|
10-14 |
The Seventh Moscow Solar System Symposium (7M-S3),
Moscow, Russia
Subject matter of this symposium will cover many problems of the solar system science with the central topic “Moon and Mars exploration.” This topic relates to scientific problems of several projects which are under development in Russia: “Luna-Glob,” “Luna-Resource,” and two joint Roscosmos-ESA missions to Mars: “ExoMars 2016” which was launched on March 14, 2016 and “ExoMars 2018.” |
|
16-21 |
Joint 48th Division of Planetary Sciences (DPS) and 11th European Planetary Science Conference (EPSC),
Pasadena, California
Joint 48th Division of Planetary Sciences (DPS) and 11th European Planetary Science Conference (EPSC) will be an exciting program that captures the breadth of the international planetary science by combining the scientific results of the participants in the DPS and EPSC research communities at one single joint meeting. |
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17-21 | IAU Symposium 328: Living Around Active Stars, Baresias, Brazil | |
18-22 | III Congreso Internacional de Astrobiologia, Manizales, Columbia | |
20 |
Assessing the Geologic Evolution of Greater Thaumasia, Mars (Don Hood, Department of Geology and Geophysics at Louisiana State University),
Lecture Hall
The chemical maps provided by the Gamma-Ray Spectrometer (GRS) instrument suite aboard the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter allow chemical insight into the martian shallow subsurface. In this dataset, some regions show unique chemical anomalies where multiple elements deviate significantly from their average values. One such region, termed Greater Thaumasia, is characterized by overlapping signatures of K, Th, and H2O depletion, as well as Si enrichment. These chemical anomalies overlap the interesting geology of Sinai and Thaumasia Planum, the wrinkle ridge structures southwest of Thaumasia, and the inter-crater plains leading to the Argyre Basin. We use combined chemistry, mineralogy, and other remote observations to test existing models for the formation of the Greater Thaumasia region, as well as models for global magmatic evolution. |
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24-26 |
Global Congress and Expo on Materials Science and Nanoscience,
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Scientific Federation invites all the participants across the globe to attend the Global Congress & Expo on Materials Science & Nanoscience during October 24-26, 2016 at Dubai, UAE. Materials Science-2016 is a remarkable event which brings together unique and international academic scientists, leading engineers, universities and industries making the congress a perfect platform to share experience, foster collaborations across industry and academia and evaluate emerging technologies across the globe. Initiation of cross-border co-operations between scientists and institutions will be also facilitated. Materials Science-2016 unites application from various scientific disciplines, pushing the frontiers of Applied Physics, Biological & Chemical Engineering and Nanotechnology. It represents the huge area where the focus lies on developing product-related technologies with rapid advancement in research in recent years. It is true that fundamental work on materials has turned up with unexpected momentous discoveries, but more frequently, the importance and significance can be gauged by the fact that it has made huge advancements over the course of time and is continuing to influence various sectors. This program provides three days of robust discussions on recent advancements and new strategies for development of new materials for global requirements. Our pleasure to meet you in upcoming event! |
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24-27 | 3rd International Workshop on Instrumentation for Planetary Missions (#iwipm3) *, Pasadena, California | |
24-28 |
Eighth Huntsville Gamma-Ray Burst Symposium (#gammaray2016) *,
Huntsville, Alabama
The Symposium will cover all areas of GRB science with a particular emphasis on multi-messenger observations and theory. |
|
24-28 |
Exploring the Universe with JWST - II,
Montreal, Canada
With JWST’s launch date approaching rapidly and a first call for proposals scheduled for the end of 2017, it is important to give the astronomical community opportunities to present, highlight, and discuss scientific programs that will be made possible by JWST. |
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25-27 |
8th International Workshop on Planetary, Solar and Heliospheric Radio Emissions (PRE VIII),
Seggauberg, Austria
Key topics of our workshop are the recent developments in the study of non-thermal radio emissions from exoplanets. |
|
27-28 |
SMA Science in the Next Decade,
Taipei, Taiwan
This workshop will provide a forum for astronomers from the SMA collaboration and user community to promote, discuss, and elaborate key science cases for SMA observations in the next decade. |
|
31-Nov 4 |
Stardust Final Conference on Asteroids and Space Debris,
Noodwijk, The Netherlands
The Final Stardust Conference will consist of parallel symposia sessions and keynote guest speakers. The conference is open to everybody who wants to present recent results on any of the following topics. |
November 2016
1-3 |
Annual Meeting of the Lunar Exploration Analysis Group (#leag2016) *,
Columbia, Maryland
The 2016 LEAG annual meeting will bring together scientists, engineers, industry/private sector, and government personnel to explore and develop lunar exploration strategies that benefit all constituencies that LEAG represents, and promote solar system exploration through the use of lunar resources. |
|
1-16 |
XXVIII Canary Islands Winter School of Astrophics,
La Laguna, Spain
Tackle many aspects of solar system exploration, covering the fundamentals, hot-topics on dynamical evolution, planetary and asteroid surfaces, and planetary atmospheres, and the most recent results from space missions. |
|
3-4 |
Managing Medical Emergencies in Space: Skills and Issues,
Houston, Texas
We are conducting a research project (funded by the National Space Biomedical Research Institute (NSBRI)) to address gaps related to the management of medical emergencies that occur during long duration deep space exploration missions. The purpose of this meeting with an expert panel is to prioritize skills and develop consensus on the most important issues related to managing medical emergencies in space. |
|
4-5 |
New Worlds 2016 Conference,
Austin, Texas
To live on New Worlds we need new ideas. A punch list of technologies and plans that when added together create our first habitats and colonies. We invite you to present ideas on breakthrough technologies and concepts that advance our capabilities to survive and thrive on the frontier. |
|
10-11 |
Future Large Optical-Infrared Facilities in China,
Beijing, China
To discuss proposed 12-meter optical-infrared telescope I Ali, Tibet and feasibility of developing a 6.5-meter optical-infrared telescope proposed by a consortium of universities. |
|
14-16 |
High-Contrast Imaging in Space,
Baltimore, Maryland
In this workshop, we will explore the legacy of existing space-based high contrast imaging from the Hubble and Spitzer Space Telescopes. The workshop will investigate how existing scientific observations and coronagraphic techniques may be applied for future observations with the James Webb Space Telescope, the Wide-Field Infrared Survey Telescope, and other future missions to image exoplanets, debris disks, protoplanetary disks, AGN, Solar System objects, as well as other astronomical objects. |
|
14-18 |
Comets 2016,
Toulouse, France
This conference is the latest in a series of international meetings intended to promote the exchange of knowledge and ideas among cometary scientists, with a view to integrate them in a comprehensive understanding of comets after the in-depth studies of Rosetta, Philae, and other space missions and ground-based observations. One goal of this meeting is to generate a comprehensive global understanding of comets that will serve as an important resource for future studies. Reports on the discussions of the conference will be published at a later time. |
|
21-23 |
The ARIEL Space Mission,
Brussels, Belgium
This international conference will provide an overview of the ARIEL science and mission, including presenting the opportunities for the general community that ARIEL will offer, as well as providing a forum for discussion and feedback in advance of the ESA Cosmic Vision review process. |
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28-Dec 1 |
Exoplanets: Bridging the Gap Between Theory and Observations,
Bad Honnef, Germany
A comprehensive overview about the current status of exoplanet research and discuss plans for future developments. |
|
29-Dec 1 | 14th Meeting of the Venus Exploration Analysis Group (VEXAG), Washington, DC | |
29-Dec 2 |
4th Symposium on Solar System Materials (Hayabusa 2016),
Tokyo, Japan
Hayabusa2 had successfully finished the Earth swing-by and is flying toward the target asteroid, Ryugu. NASA will launch OSIRIS-REx to return samples from Bennu this year, and ESA has almost completed Rosetta around comet 67P C-G. Hayabusa return samples have been examined by in-depth researches in 1st to 3rd AOs. This time we would like to feature the organized sciences between remote-sensing and planetary materials as well as to review the sciences from Hayabusa-returned samples. Additionally, this symposium is jointed with the 39th Symposium on Antarctic Meteorites, which is detailed at http://www.nipr.ac.jp/symposium2016/. Let us join and set a prospective to the future solar system science driven by these topics with this symposium! |
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29-Dec 2 |
7th Symposium on Polar Science and 39th Symposium on Antarctic Meteorites,
Tokyo, Japan
The Seventh Symposium on Polar Science will be held at the National Institute of Polar Research (NIPR), Tokyo, Japan, from 29 November to 2 December 2016. The NIPR is organizing this annual symposium to present and promote a wide variety of polar scientific research and interdisciplinary studies. Also held in conjunction with the 39th Symposium on Antarctic Meteorites and the 4th Symposium on Solar System Materials (Hayabusa 2016). |
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29-Dec 2 |
International Workshop Without Walls: Exoplanetary Space Weather, Climate, and Habilitability,
New Orleans, Louisiana
The major goal of the proposed conference is to promote inter-disciplinary studies and develop a community roadmap that cross the boundaries of space weather from the Sun to cool stars and investigate its impact on (exo)planetary climates. This will be achieved by bringing together the members of NExSS team who are involved in related activities and broader astrophysics, heliophysics and planetary science communities. Their perspective of interrelation between space weather, climate and habitability conditions can be crucial in defining the boundaries of biogenic zones around F to M dwarfs. |
December 2016
5-6 |
A Workshop on Searching for Life Across Space and Time,
Irvine, California
Explore the current status of activities to detect extraterrestrial life in the solar system and extrasolar planetary systems. |
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7-8 |
Magellan Science Meeting,
Washington, DC
Discuss recent scientific results from Magellan observations with the twin goals of communicating the exciting research being done and looking toward what new capabilities will keep Magellan on the forefront of discovery. |
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11-16 |
Search for Life: From Early Earth to Exoplanets,
Quy Nhon, Vietnam
The goal of the conference is to bring together the interdisciplinary community required to address the challenging and fundamental questions that have fascinated and intrigued scientists, philosophers, and the general public alike since antiquity: Where, when, and how did life emerge and evolve on Earth? What are the conditions under which life can exist? Does life exist elsewhere in the Universe and, if it does, how can it be detected and studied? |
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12-16 | 2016 AGU Fall Meeting, San Francisco, California |