21 Best Books on Planetary Science

We have compiled a list of the Best Reference Books on Planetary Science, which are used by students of top universities, and colleges. This will help you choose the right book depending on if you are a beginner or an expert. Here is the complete list of Planetary Science Books with their authors, publishers, and an unbiased review of them as well as links to the Amazon website to directly purchase them. If permissible, you can also download the free PDF books on Planetary Science below.

1. Earth and Planetary Systems

 
1."Pale Blue Dot: A Vision of the Human Future in Space" by Carl Sagan and Ann Druyan
“Pale Blue Dot: A Vision of the Human Future in Space” Book review: This is an inspiring and thought-provoking book about humanity’s potential for space exploration. The book is divided into four parts: “Exploration,” “Inhabitants,” “Perspective,” and “Encounter.” It discusses topics such as the history of space exploration, the possibilities of human colonization of other planets, and the philosophical implications of our place in the universe.

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2."Lunar and Planetary Rovers: The Wheels of Apollo and the Quest for Mars (Springer Praxis Books)" by Anthony Young
“Lunar and Planetary Rovers: The Wheels of Apollo and the Quest for Mars (Springer Praxis Books)” Book Review: This book is an extensive guide to the history and technology of space rovers. Chapters include discussions on the early development of rovers, the challenges and innovations that led to the success of the Apollo missions, and the future of planetary exploration with rovers. The book also includes numerous images and diagrams to aid in understanding the complex machinery involved.

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3."Introduction to Earth and Planetary System Science: New View of Earth, Planets and Humans" by Naotatsu Shikazono
“Introduction to Earth and Planetary System Science: New View of Earth, Planets and Humans” Book Review: This book is an insightful guide to the science of our planet and its place in the cosmos. The book covers topics such as the solar system, the Earth’s structure and composition, plate tectonics, the oceans, the atmosphere, climate change, and the search for extraterrestrial life. The author also explores the relationship between humans and the environment, providing a comprehensive introduction to the field.

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4."Stochastic Flood Forecasting System: The Middle River Vistula Case Study (GeoPlanet: Earth and Planetary Sciences)" by Marzena Osuch and Renata J Romanowicz
“Stochastic Flood Forecasting System: The Middle River Vistula Case Study (GeoPlanet: Earth and Planetary Sciences)” Book Review: The book presents a comprehensive study of flood forecasting using a stochastic approach. It covers the methodology for predicting floods, incorporating both meteorological and hydrological factors. The book also discusses the development of a stochastic flood forecasting system for the Middle River Vistula, with detailed case studies. It is a valuable resource for researchers and practitioners in the field of flood management and hydrology.

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5."Exoplanets: Diamond Worlds, Super Earths, Pulsar Planets, and the New Search for Life beyond Our Solar System" by Michael Summers and James Trefil
“Exoplanets: Diamond Worlds, Super Earths, Pulsar Planets, and the New Search for Life beyond Our Solar System” Book Review: This book is an engaging and informative exploration of the fascinating world of exoplanets. The book covers a range of topics including the history of exoplanet discovery, the various types of exoplanets, and the search for life beyond our solar system. Chapters also delve into the techniques and technology used in exoplanet discovery and exploration. The book concludes with discussions on the future of exoplanet research and its potential implications for our understanding of the universe.

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6."Seismic Events in Glaciers (GeoPlanet: Earth and Planetary Sciences)" by Marek Górski
“Seismic Events in Glaciers (GeoPlanet: Earth and Planetary Sciences)” Book Review: The book is a comprehensive guide to the study of seismic activity in glaciers. This book covers topics such as glacier dynamics, seismic wave propagation, seismological instrumentation, and data analysis techniques. It also discusses case studies of seismic events in glaciers from around the world, and their implications for understanding glacier processes. The book is a valuable resource for researchers and students in glaciology and seismology.

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7."Exoplanets: Finding, Exploring, and Understanding Alien Worlds (Astronomers' Universe)" by C R Kitchin
“Exoplanets: Finding, Exploring, and Understanding Alien Worlds (Astronomers’ Universe)” Book Review: This book covers a comprehensive range of topics related to the solar system and the planets within it, offering an accurate and balanced account of exoplanets.

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8."Under a Crimson Sun: Prospects for Life in a Red Dwarf System (Astronomers' Universe)" by David S Stevenson
“Under a Crimson Sun: Prospects for Life in a Red Dwarf System (Astronomers’ Universe)” Book Review: The book explores the potential for life on planets orbiting red dwarf stars, the most common type of star in the galaxy. The book covers topics such as exoplanet detection methods, the habitable zone, planetary atmospheres, and the potential for life on these worlds. Chapters also include discussions on the challenges and opportunities for interstellar travel and colonization.

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9."The Atmosphere and Climate of Mars (Cambridge Planetary Science)" by Dr Robert M. Haberle and Dr R Todd Clancy
“The Atmosphere and Climate of Mars (Cambridge Planetary Science)” Book Review: The book is designed for students, researchers, and those interested in planetary environments, this book explores new ideas related to the atmosphere and climate system, including the complex interplay between volatile and dust cycles. The book offers tutorials and simplified explanations of complicated concepts.

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10."Thermodynamics in Earth and Planetary Sciences" by Jibamitra Ganguly
“Thermodynamics in Earth and Planetary Sciences” Book Review: This book delves into the application of thermodynamics in the field of earth and planetary science. The main topics covered in this book are the first and second laws of thermodynamics, thermodynamic potentials, derivative properties, the third law, and thermochemistry. It is aimed at graduate students and researchers who wish to acquire a fundamental understanding of the principles of thermodynamics. The book offers insight into a wide range of geological, geochemical, and geophysical issues, as well as problems related to planetary science and the relationship between thermodynamics and microscopic properties. The book also covers critical phenomena and equations of state, phase transitions, and melting and reactions of stoichiometric phases. Each chapter is accompanied by a reference list, and the figures and equations are explained in detail. This book is an ideal resource for students studying geochemistry and geology.

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11."Planet Earth: Ecosystems" by Andy Horsley
“Planet Earth: Ecosystems” Book Review: The book explores the fascinating world of Earth’s ecosystems, with a particular emphasis on the intricate relationships between plants and animals. Additionally, it sheds light on the critical role of human beings in protecting and preserving these ecosystems. By blending scientific and geographical topics, this book offers a wealth of interesting facts and illustrations to engage readers.

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12."An Introduction to the Solar System" by McBride N and Gilmour I
“An Introduction to the Solar System” Book Review: The book provides a comprehensive understanding of planetary science concepts. It includes information on the formation of the Solar System, as well as the composition, internal structure, and surface morphology of planets. It also covers the atmospheric conditions of terrestrial planets, along with evidence from meteorites. The book is complemented with vivid illustrations and graphics to enhance learning. Additionally, it includes a concise summary and a glossary of key terms. This book is a valuable resource for students and anyone interested in planetary science.

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2. Planetary Geoscience

 
1."Meteorites, Comets and Planets" by Davis A M
“Meteorites, Comets and Planets” Book Review: This book offers a comprehensive survey of the solar system, covering a range of topics such as the formation of elements, the solar nebula, and the emergence of planets. It explores the early history of the solar system and discusses the abundances of different elements, meteorite classification, and the giant planets along with their satellites. The book comprises 26 chapters, written by various scientists and researchers, providing an in-depth analysis of the subject matter. The book includes numerous images and figures to aid comprehension. It is an ideal resource for senior-level undergraduate geochemistry students.

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2."Meteorites and Their Parent Planets" by Harry Y Mc Sween
“Meteorites and Their Parent Planets” Book Review: The focus of this book is to provide an overview of the various extra-terrestrial materials found in space. The main chapters discuss topics such as meteorites, chondrites, chondrite parent bodies, and achondrites. It also includes information on achondrite parent bodies, iron and stony iron meteorites, and a space odyssey. In addition, each unit has a suggested reading section to further explore the topics. The book uses diagrams and pictures to enhance the explanation of the subjects. This book is particularly useful for undergraduate students studying geology.

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3."Meteorites: A Petrologic, Chemical and Isotopic Synthesis" by Hutchinson R
“Meteorites: A Petrologic, Chemical and Isotopic Synthesis” Book Review: This book delves into the field of Meteorites, covering important topics such as chondrites, their components, and petrography. The book also discusses the evolution of chondrites over time, their origin, and differentiated meteorites. Each chapter includes a summary and selected bibliography for further exploration. The topics are illustrated with data tables and images. This book is a valuable resource for students studying geology.

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4."Planetary geosciences" by NASA
“Planetary geosciences” Book Review: The book comprehensively covers the key topics related to planetary geoscience. It includes a discussion on the solar system, asteroids, comets, terrestrial planets, geology, geophysics, gas giant planets, and moons. The topics are well-supported by research analyses conducted by prominent scientists. This book is highly recommended for students studying geology and geochemistry.

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5."Advances in Geosciences" by Anil Bhardwaj
“Advances in Geosciences” Book Review: This book covers recent developments in geoscience, featuring various research papers on different topics. Some of the important topics discussed in this book are the solar wind interactions on Mars and Venus, star compositions, and the formation of alumina nanoparticles in plasma. Other topics included are water resources, ocean science, coastal study, solar science, and tsunamis. Each research paper is analyzed and discussed in detail. This book is suitable for advanced-level students studying geology or geoscience.

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6."Geoscience: Instrumentation and Analytical Techniques" by Joe Carry
“Geoscience: Instrumentation and Analytical Techniques” Book Review: The focus of this book is on the analytical techniques and instruments used in geoscience. It covers topics such as data management systems, remote sensing techniques, and the evaluation of different measurements. The book provides a detailed discussion of advanced techniques and technologies. It is intended for use by students, researchers, and professionals in the field of geoscience.

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7."Geophysics: Principles and Concepts" by Karl Seibert
“Geophysics: Principles and Concepts” Book Review: This book provides an introduction to the fundamental concepts of geophysics. It covers a range of topics such as the theories of earth structure and shape, seismology, and the fluid dynamics of the ocean. The book also discusses magnetic fields, the internal structure of the earth, and surface phenomena. The information presented is supported by expert research and studies. This book is recommended for students of geology and geophysics.

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8."Planetary Geoscience" by A D Fortes
“Planetary Geoscience” Book Review: The focus of this book is to introduce the field of planetary geoscience to the readers. The book covers a wide range of topics including the origin and evolution of planetary bodies, surface processes such as volcanism, water and wind erosion, tectonics, and celestial bodies like comets, gas giants, and meteorites. The book is supplemented by more than 150 images and line drawings to enhance the readers’ understanding. A comprehensive glossary and recommended readings are also included. This book is recommended for undergraduate students studying geology.

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9."Geotechnical Engineering and Earth Science" by Agnes Nolan
“Geotechnical Engineering and Earth Science” Book Review: This book provides an overview of the characteristics and compositions of soils and rocks. It covers important topics such as magnetometry, data calibration mechanisms, and remote sensing. The book discusses various data measurement systems and assessments used in this field. Additionally, it includes research and case studies. This book can be a useful resource for students of civil engineering.

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We have put a lot of effort into researching the best books on Planetary Science and came out with a recommended list and their reviews. If any more book needs to be added to this list, please email us. We are working on free pdf downloads for books on Planetary Science and will publish the download link here. Fill out this Planetary Science books pdf download" request form for download notification.

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