Wiktionary
n. That branch of astronomy that deals with the planets of the solar system
Wikipedia
There are interrelated observational and theoretical branches of planetary science. Observational research can involve a combination of space exploration, predominantly with robotic spacecraft missions using remote sensing, and comparative, experimental work in Earth-based laboratories. The theoretical component involves considerable computer simulation and mathematical modelling.
Planetary scientists are generally located in the astronomy and physics or Earth sciences departments of universities or research centres, though there are several purely planetary science institutes worldwide. There are several major conferences each year, and a wide range of peer-reviewed journals.
Usage examples of "planetary science".
An anonymous and unexpected grant to the Planetary Science Foundation would finance a reconnaissance of the Jovian (even now, no-one ever called it Luciferian) satellite system, paying particular attention to a dozen of the neglected smaller moons.
Perhaps on some new mission we'll find something different, something striking, something wholly inexplicable with the ordinary tools of planetary science—.
Perhaps on some new mission we'll find something different, something striking, something wholly inexplicable with the ordinary tools of planetary science-and tremulously, cautiously, we will inch toward a biological explanation.
Vicki was impressed that Sariena was able so matter-of-factly to consider a proposition which, if true, would bring tumbling down a whole area of Kronian planetary science that she herself had spent years helping to put together.
I licensed to work on Downbelow in Planetary Science, which is what I want to do, and where you called me from, and where I left everything I care about.