The aim of the Comparative planetology forum is to support and enhance research in planetary science (e.g., studies of Mars, the Moon, asteroids, impact craters), the early Earth, and astrobiology. These aims will be met by facilitating collaborations, for example through focused science meetings, and enhancing researcher mobility by building links between institutions through initiatives such as equipment sharing. The forum also seeks to enhance the impact of our research through engagement with industry including the Scottish satellite companies and spaceports, governmental organisations, and the general public.
SAGES Comparative Planetology Forum: Research in Progress Meeting
15 May 2026, Nucleus Building, King’s Buildings Campus, University of Edinburgh
Research in Progress - Meeting Schedule
The aim of this one-day meeting is to provide an opportunity for researchers in planetary science and related fields (e.g., astrobiology, exoplanets, early Earth) to share ongoing work, exchange ideas, and initiate future collaborations. This year’s meeting will focus on research in progress, providing a supportive environment for participants to present developing results, discuss new approaches, and receive feedback from the community.
We particularly encourage contributions from early-career researchers, including postgraduate students and postdoctoral researchers, and welcome presentations on work at any stage of development.
Abstracts for ten-minute oral presentations and posters are invited from members of SAGES institutions. The meeting is free to attend, and lunch and refreshments will be provided.
Abstract deadline: 24 April 2026
For any enquiries please contact Auriol Rae (auriol.rae@ed.ac.uk)
Organising Team: Auriol Rae, Jens Barosch, Geoff Bromiley, Iris van Zelst
Exploring the Solar System using missions and returned samples
9 May 2025, Ferguson Room, University of Glasgow
The aim of this one-day meeting is to provide an opportunity for researchers in planetary science and related fields (e.g., astrobiology, exoplanets, early Earth) to share results and ideas, and to initiate future collaborations. The meeting’s focus is on the discoveries and opportunities afforded by the recent return of samples from near-Earth asteroids Ryugu and Bennu, the analysis of the moon and Mars by landers, and the natural return of extraterrestrial samples as meteorites (e.g., Winchcombe). We can also look forward to future missions to collect and return samples from the Moon, Mars and asteroids.
Presentations by Professor Katie Joy (University of Manchester) and Dr Ashley King (Natural History Museum, London) will help provide the setting, describe recent discoveries, and explore future opportunities.
Abstracts for ten-minute oral presentations, and posters, are invited from members of SAGES institutions, and contributions from early career researchers are especially encouraged. The meeting is free, and lunch and refreshments will be provided. Travel grants are available for early career researchers.
Abstract deadline is 22nd April 2025.
For any enquires please contact Heather Gibson (h.gibson.1@research.gla.ac.uk) or Martin Lee (Martin.Lee@Glasgow.ac.uk)
Comparative Planetology forum programme 9 May 2025
26 April 2024 – Linklater Room, Kings College, University of Aberdeen, Old Aberdeen Campus 10:00 – 16:30
November 2023 news:
Dr Luke Daly has been awarded the 2024 Max Hey medal by the Mineralogical Society of Great Britain and Ireland. The purpose of the medal is: To recognise existing and ongoing research of excellence carried out by young workers, within the fields of either Mineralogy, Crystallography, Petrology or Geochemistry.
Existing members can complete this form to register for our Comparative Planetology Forum mailing list. New members must complete a membership application form.
