World of Earth and Space

Read about research projects being conducted at Arizona State University. Many of the articles you find on this page are written by graduate students. The list is always growing so be sure to come back and visit often.

Why do we study volcanoes on other planets?

Written by: Sean Peters

Volcanoes are found on other planets and moons across the solar system.  The lava they erupt provides information on how other planets and moons formed.

What are asteroids?

Written by: Steven Dibb

When people think of objects in the solar system, they might think about planets first. But there are so many other objects in space to explore.

What are galaxies?

Written by: J’Neil Cottle

There are millions of galaxies in our Universe. How do we organize them so that we can compare them to each other and learn new things?

How long have humans explored space?

Written by: Steven Dibb

Space exploration is an adventure unlike anything else. Discover the history and future of humans in space to learn how you could be a part of it.

Meteoroids or meteorites?

Written by: Soumya Ray, Zachary Torrano

Meteorites are rocks from space, often from asteroids, Mars, or even the Moon. Join us on a journey through space and time, as we explore meteorites.

Earth's atmosphere

Written by: Aleisha Johnson

Today, the air we breathe has lots of oxygen – over 20 percent! But that wasn’t always the case.

Rough and Smooth Lava

Written by: Gavin Tolometti

The surface of lava can appear smooth, rough, jagged, and sometimes like a pile of construction rubble. What are the stories behind these surface features and how did they form?

Radio satellite cartoon

Written by: John Malloy

If humans discovered aliens, what would they look like? And where would we find them? 

How Are Basalt Columns Formed?
Answer »

Be part of Ask An Earth and Space Scientist

By volunteering, or simply sending us feedback on the site. Scientists, teachers, writers, illustrators, and translators are all important to the program. If you are interested in helping with the website we have a volunteers page to get the process started.

Donate icon  Contribute