Caltech has a strong program in observational astronomy for planetary sciences. Heather Knutson observes exoplanet atmospheres. Mike Brown and Katherine de Kleer observe bodies in our own solar system. Konstantin Batygin studies the long-term orbital evolution of extrasolar planets with a particular emphasis on the role played by dynamical chaos. Geoff Blake observes planet-forming regions and disks around other stars. Shri Kulkarni has a wide-ranging program in astronomy that includes study of small bodies (e.g., asteroids) and transient phenomena. Caltech has excellent access to ground-based observing facilities across the world and is also heavily involved in Hubble and the upcoming James Webb Space Telescope. The observations of exoplanets and solar system objects feed into dynamical, atmospheric, interior, and surface research areas as well as drive new mission and instrument concepts.
