BSc Physics with Planetary and Space Physics

You’ll dive straight into real-world physics and space science from day one. You’ll gain hands‑on experience in labs, learn professional programming and numerical methods, work with observational and simulation tools, and engage with active research groups. Throughout, small-group tutorials, workshops, and individual and team-based projects will sharpen your practical skills under expert supervision.

Here’s how your learning is brought to life:

Specialist facilities & digital tools:

• Access to dedicated astronomy and physics equipment, including telescopes and space-related instrumentation used by the Department’s research staff.

• Develop computational skills using numerical techniques modules and software like Python and C++ for data analysis and modelling in second-year modules such as Numerical Techniques for Physicists.

Group projects & collaborative learning:

• Step-by-step learning through lectures, seminars, tutorials, workshops and practicals, with both individual and group-based project work embedded in all years.

• Presentation tasks and lab reports help build communication, teamworking, and peer collaboration skills as part of assessed coursework.

Research projects & instrumentation-focused modules:

• In your final year, you’ll undertake a large research project (40 credits) on topics such as solar physics, planetary atmospheres, or ionospheric studies under academic supervision.

• Specialist modules like Astrophysics I: Physics of the Sun and Physics of Planetary Atmospheres give theoretical and observational insight into planetary and solar phenomena.

Internships & placements:

• Though not mandatory for the BSc, you’re encouraged via the University’s Careers Service and schemes like Year in Employment (YES) or GO Wales to seek local paid placements and work experience opportunities with regional businesses or research groups.

Field skills & observational training:

• Modules such as Stars and Planets introduce observational astronomy techniques, including spectroscopy, radial velocity, and photometry applied to stars and exoplanets.

• You get hands-on exposure to data analysis and astronomical instrumentation throughout your degree with departmental observational equipment.

Dedicated labs & learning spaces:

• Practical learning takes place in modern physics and engineering labs, with modules focused on Laboratory Techniques for Experimental Physicists and Engineers in your first year.

• The Department also hosts a Physical Sciences library, including specialist collections supporting your physics, mathematics, and computing research needs.

Graduates of Aberystwyth University’s BSc Physics with Planetary and Space Physics are highly employable, moving into roles such as planetary scientist, space mission analyst, geophysicist, research scientist, data specialist, and positions in sectors including space exploration, environmental monitoring, aerospace, and education. Many alumni also pursue MSc or PhD studies in planetary science, astrophysics, or related fields, supported by the university’s research expertise and industry collaborations.

Here’s how Aberystwyth specifically supports your future:

Career Services & Experiential Learning
The program blends core physics with specialized planetary and space science modules, covering topics like planetary atmospheres, solar system dynamics, and remote sensing. You’ll gain hands-on experience in lab work, programming (Python, MATLAB), and data analysis, with opportunities to analyze real astronomical and space mission datasets. In your final year, you’ll undertake an independent research project, often aligned with active research in planetary science or instrumentation, honing your problem-solving and technical communication skills. Aberystwyth’s Careers Service provides tailored workshops, employer networking, and placement support for space and tech sectors.

Industry Partnerships & Research
Aberystwyth’s Physics Department collaborates with NASA, ESA, and the UK Space Agency, contributing to missions like ExoMars and lunar exploration projects. The university hosts the Aberystwyth Space Systems Laboratory, focusing on space robotics and instrumentation, with ties to companies like Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd (SSTL). Students access observational facilities, high-performance computing, and planetary simulation labs. Research areas include asteroid studies, Martian geology, and space weather, with opportunities for student involvement.

Accreditation
The BSc is accredited by the Institute of Physics (IoP), ensuring the degree meets rigorous standards and supports progression to Chartered Physicist status or postgraduate study.

Graduate Outcomes
Graduates develop strong analytical, computational, and research skills, with expertise in interpreting planetary data and modeling physical systems. These competencies are valued in space agencies, environmental consultancies, defense, and academia.

Further Academic Progression
After the BSc, students often pursue MSc or PhD programs in planetary science, space robotics, or astrophysics at Aberystwyth or other leading institutions. The degree also opens doors to technical roles in space instrumentation, Earth observation, and science communication, backed by Aberystwyth’s research networks and industry links.