Word from Oxford

Planetary Science is an ever-burgeoning field, rooted in our quest to explore, discover, and better understand solar and extrasolar systems, and the bodies they contain. What constitutes such systems and bodies, how do they originate and evolve, and what, if any, is their capacity for biology?

The pursuit of such knowledge is at the very heart of Oxford University Press’s mission and as such, I am honored to serve as the commissioning editor for the Oxford Research Encyclopedia of Planetary Science. Headed by Editor in Chief Peter Read, along with the experts on our international Editorial and Advisory Boards, this dynamic, evolving research encyclopedia incorporates the breadth of the science and the diverse disciplines related to it.

The ORE of Planetary Science occupies a unique and valuable place within the overwhelming volume of online scientific content available to researchers and advanced students. Designed to clarify and advance planetary science in the 21st century, the research encyclopedia works to present a comprehensive grasp of the disciplines involved, and those related; from planetary geology, atmospheres, and astrobiology (to name a few) to research technology and applications, space policy and law, beliefs about planets and planetary systems through history and across cultures, and other significant areas.

The ORE and its contents will evolve alongside new developments in the field, and at every stage, will be strengthened by the efforts of authors, reviewers, and editors from the global scholarly community. As a meeting ground for the science and related disciplines, we hope that it acts as a primary resource for scientists, researchers, university educators and students, other experts, and those interested in planetary systems in all their myriad interactions, and the evolution of our understanding about them.

Please check back regularly for updates and news about the project, and consider getting involved. We look forward to working with you!

Yours,

Meghan Wright
Acquisitions Editor, Earth, Environmental, and Physical Sciences