Geophysics

Deutsch: Geophysik / Español: Geofísica / Português: Geofísica / Français: Géophysique / Italiano: Geofisica /

Geophysics is a subject of natural science concerned with the physical processes and physical properties of the Earth and its surrounding space environment, and the use of quantitative methods for their analysis.

Geophysics in the aerospace context refers to the study of the physical properties, processes, and structure of celestial bodies, such as planets, moons, asteroids, and comets. This includes the study of their internal structure, composition, magnetic fields, gravity fields, and surface features.

In the aerospace context, geophysics is used to better understand the structure, composition and the evolution of celestial bodies. It is also used to study the processes that shape their surfaces and the forces that affect their interiors.

Examples of geophysical measurements in the aerospace context include:

• Gravity measurements: The study of the gravitational field of a celestial body, which can reveal information about its internal structure and composition. For example, the Galileo spacecraft measured the gravitational field of Europa and helped confirm the presence of a subsurface ocean.

• Magnetic measurements: The study of the magnetic field of a celestial body, which can provide information about the presence of a core, the composition of the material and the convection in its interior. For example, the Mars Global Surveyor spacecraft measured the magnetic field of Mars and helped to understand the planet's history and the presence of subsurface water.

• Seismology: The study of seismic waves, which are generated by impacts or internal activity, such as volcanic eruptions. These waves can reveal information about the internal structure of a celestial body. For example, the InSight lander on Mars is using seismology to study the planet's internal structure and composition.

• Topography: The study of the shape and relief of the surface of a celestial body, which can provide information about the processes that have shaped it, such as erosion, tectonics, and volcanism. For example, the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter has provided detailed topographic maps of the Moon, which have helped to understand its geology and history.

In summary, geophysics in the aerospace context refers to the study of the physical properties, processes, and structure of celestial bodies, through the measurement of various parameters such as gravity, magnetic fields, seismology, and topography. It provides insight into the internal structure, composition, and evolution of celestial bodies, as well as the processes that shape their surfaces and the forces that affect their interiors.