Researchers at Australian National University are embarking on a major new planetary science initiative led by Hrvoje Tkalčić, supported by more than $3.8 million through an Australian Laureate Fellowship.

The project will use planetary seismology to study the internal structures of Earth, Mars and the Moon by analysing how seismic waves travel through planetary interiors. The research aims to provide new insights into how planets form, evolve and cool over time. Mars is a key focus because, unlike Earth, it cooled relatively quickly and preserved much of its ancient geological history.

The work also builds on seismic discoveries from the Apollo era. Between 1969 and 1972, astronauts deployed instruments on the Moon that detected more than 12,000 moonquakes, creating one of the first detailed records of lunar seismic activity. Researchers hope that future lunar missions equipped with modern instruments will significantly expand this knowledge.

Australia is contributing to these future missions through the SPIDER project — a compact lunar seismic station being developed with Fleet Space Technologies and supported by the Australian Space Agency. The project reflects Australia’s growing involvement in international space research and planetary exploration.

In addition to advancing scientific understanding, the fellowship will support mentoring emerging researchers and strengthening Australia’s long-term capabilities in planetary science and space technology.

Still curious about the inner dynamics of our planet? Professor Tkalčić’s latest book When Worlds Quake reveals how quakes can help scientists to understand the mysterious inner architecture and ongoing evolution of our planet, as well as worlds beyond our own.

Source: Article by Amanda Cox, Contributing Writer.

This article first appeared at the ANU College of Science and Medicine. Read the original article.