Status and Prospect for Chinese Planetary Physics

Abstract

Numerous great discoveries have been made in the field of deep space exploration over the past 50 years, and they deepen our knowledge and synergetic comprehension greatly about the Earth, Planets, and the Solar system. The deep space exploration not only acts as impetus to drive the development of modern science and technology, but also fosters the planetary physics as a new interdiscipline. This study analyzes the background and current status for the discipline of planetary physics, and compares the progress made on the planetary physics of China with that of the other well-developed countries. The relationship of the Chinese planetary physics with the other traditional disciplines, like geophysics, space physics etc., as well as with the projects of deep space missions is elaborated. Based on the current status and developing trend of planetary study, this paper presents possible directions as well as instructive suggestions for the development of Chinese planetary physics in the near future.