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R. Ranjitham,
S. Ravichandran,
A. Ajitha,
- Professor, Department of Chemistry, Tagore Institute of Engineering and Technology, Salem, Tamil Nadu, India
- Assistant Professor, Department of Chemistry, Tagore Institute of Engineering and Technology, Salem, Madhya Pradesh, India
- Assistant Professor, Department of Physics, Tagore Institute of Engineering and Technology, Salem, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
Space science is a multidisciplinary field that investigates the origin, evolution, composition, and physical processes of the Universe and its constituent systems. It integrates astrophysics, cosmology, planetary science, exoplanet research, heliophysics, and space-based observational astronomy. Recent advances in space science have been enabled by sophisticated observatories, spacecraft instrumentation, remote-sensing technologies, computational modeling, and international scientific collaboration. The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has significantly expanded observations of early galaxies, star-forming regions, planetary systems, and exoplanet atmospheres, providing new insights into cosmic evolution and planetary formation. The European Space Agency’s Euclid mission is contributing to studies of the large-scale structure of the Universe and the nature of dark matter and dark energy. Gaia has produced highly precise measurements of stellar positions and motions, supporting detailed investigations of the structure, dynamics, and evolutionary history of the Milky Way. Solar Orbiter is advancing understanding of solar magnetic fields, solar-wind generation, energetic particles, and interactions within the heliosphere. These missions highlight the increasing importance of large astronomical datasets, artificial intelligence, machine learning, advanced data-processing techniques, and coordinated multi-wavelength observations. This review examines major domains of contemporary space science, recent observational and technological developments, and the scientific contributions of major space missions. It also discusses key challenges, including data complexity, instrument limitations, mission costs, and theoretical uncertainties. Finally, future directions are considered, emphasizing next-generation observatories, planetary exploration, space-weather research, and interdisciplinary approaches to understanding the Universe.
Keywords: Space science; astrophysics; cosmology; exoplanets; heliophysics; space weather; dark matter; dark energy; planetary science; astronomical observations
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International Journal of Universe
| Volume | 02 | |
| 02 | ||
| Received | 24/09/2026 | |
| Accepted | 25/09/2026 | |
| Published | 08/10/2026 | |
| Publication Time | 14 Days |