We study solar system objects, their atmospheres, surfaces and interiors, and governing processes using planetary exploration (i.e., spacecraft-based observations), laboratory experiments, physics-based theoretical/ numerical modelling, and computer
ed theoretical/ numerical modelling, and computer simulations. Our objective is to improve the fundamental understanding of the planetary bodies using the best available scientific tools and technology.
The broad areas we focus are: (i) Atmosphere/ environment, plasma physics and astrochemistry, (ii) Origin/ evolution of the solar system, (iii) Planetary Geology via Remote sensing, and (iv) instrumentation. The division is equipped with cutting-edge space-instrumentation laboratories, state-of-the-art laboratory facilities to study extra-terrestrial material (meteorites, mission returned samples) and analogues, and use the PRL Vikram super-computer for the theoretical and numerical work.
In addition to this, we also align investigations to facilitate and fulfil the requirements of Indian space missions for planetary exploration at the level of conceptualization, science, instrument design, implementation, experiments, data analysis, etc. The division is extensively engaged in conceptualizing, developing and delivering the scientific instruments for our future missions like Chandrayaan-3, Aditya L1, and for the upcoming mission to Venus and Mars.
It encompasses the studies connected with atmospheres/ environments of the inner solar system objects like planets, the Moon, natural/ artificial satellites, asteroids, comets, etc.
We aim at supporting and contributing to the space missions probing the planetary atmospheres. Our research focus on exploring the dynamical evolution, composition, structure, and electrodynamics & plasma (including dust) behaviour of the planetary environment and inherent physical processes. We apply the basic and applied concepts of physics (and geophysics) to investigate the aforesaid aspects using theoretical/ numerical modelling, simulation, data analysis, and lab studies as tools.
In addition, mission data is vital in understanding the subject and validating the models. In this reference, we use Mars, Venus, and Moon data (from ISRO & foreign agencies like NASA, ESA, JAXA) to explore the various exciting features of their atmosphere to improve the fundamental understanding of the planetary atmosphere and look into its implications for planned missions. We also have lab facilities to simulate the planetary atmosphere and conceptualize testbed experiments to execute the instrumentation for forthcoming Indian planetary exploration missions, for instance, missions to Moon, Venus, and Mars. The studies in connection with the plasma environment on Moon/ Venus/ Mars, lightning on Venus/ Mars, and thermophysical properties of the Moon/ Mars are the active projects. We also study the astrochemical processes to explore the molecular complexity and their implications in the astrophysical environments.
Physics, Theory, Modelling, Simulation, Data analysis, and Lab studies
Physical processes and Fluid Mechanics of Planetary Atmospheres (Mars & Venus) using Climate Models and Data from Planetary Missions (e.g., MOM, MGS, Mars Odyssey, Venus Express)
Fundamental & Applied Aspects of Complex (Dusty) Plasmas to Planetary Atmosphere
Electrodynamics & Plasma Environment on Airless Bodies (Moon & other satellites)
Interplanetary Dust Particles (IDPs) at Planets/Moons
Lightning on Planets & Atmospheric/ Ionospheric Electromagnetic Wave Propagation
...view more
True scholar network
