Planetology and Astrogeology.

Planetology and astrogeology are separate branches of science that examine the physical and chemical characteristics of the planets and minor bodies in the solar system. The principal difference between these two scientific disciplines is that planetology includes all planetary bodies, while astrogeology concentrates on worlds similar to Earth. Scientists in the field of planetology can study various topics including planetary atmospheres, interiors, orbital characteristics, the potential for life, and all aspects of planet formation and evolution. In comparison, astrogeology essentially concentrates on Earth’s various surface features and geological processes as seen in other worlds.