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Program 1
Solar Systems
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Relative sizes, surface features, composition and motions of the planets, moons and small bodies of the solar system
Place of Earth and our solar system in the Universe
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Program 2
Our Star, the Sun
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The Sun as a dynamic, variable, magnetic star
Nuclear fusion powers the Sun through the conversion of hydrogen into helium
Sun-Earth connections via radiation (light), solar wind and auroras
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Program 3
Four Rocks near the Sun
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Earth's features and processes in comparison to the other terrestrial planets
Similarities of and differences between the terrestrial planets in terms of craters, volcanism, atmosphere, temperature and planetary greenhouse effects
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Program 4
Missions to Mars
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Progress in the technology of exploration (telescopes and rocketry) and human science support teams
Importance of evidence of liquid water in the search for life beyond Earth
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Program 5
Gas Giants
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Relative sizes, surface features, composition and motions of the gas giant planets of our solar system, and their moons
Gravity can create heat energy far from the Sun, through friction and tidal effects
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Program 6
Small Bodies and Cosmic Collisions
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Characteristics of and differences between comets, asteroids, meteors and meteorites: composition and motion through the solar system
Role of collisions and impacts in destroying and enabling life
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Program 7
Looking for Life
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Definition of life in temperate and "extreme" environments, and characteristic signatures of past (fossil) and present life
Role of abiotic factors such as light, water and temperature in creating habitable environments
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Program 8
Exploring the Solar System and Beyond
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Role of mathematics, physical principles and technology in exploration of the solar system
The scientific enterprise requires a diversity of human talents and qualities of mind, deployed in a variety of settings
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