Solar System Physics (SSP)

Exploring our solar system remains one of humanity’s most exciting and technically demanding pursuits. Researchers combine observations from advanced ground- and space-based telescopes with data returned by robotic probes that travel into deep space. Those missions depend on a wide range of sophisticated technologies—and understanding the underlying physics of planets, moons, comets and interplanetary space is essential to design, operate and interpret them.

This Master’s programme builds that in-depth physics foundation so graduates can contribute to future space missions and technology development. You will gain the theoretical background and scientific perspective needed to study solar-system phenomena and to support or lead efforts in spacecraft instrumentation, mission science and data analysis. The degree is explicitly aimed at preparing students for careers in the aerospace sector or in scientific exploration of planetary bodies. As the only programme of its kind in Germany, it dovetails with TU Braunschweig’s existing strengths in Space Physics and Technology, offering close links to departmental expertise and ongoing space-focused research.

Requirements (summary)

• Language of instruction: English
• Location: Braunschweig, Germany (Technische Universität Braunschweig)
• Academic field: Physics
• For precise entry requirements, admission criteria and application deadlines, consult the programme’s official webpage or the university’s admissions office.

Overview The two‑year, consecutive Master’s programme is a full‑time, attendance‑based course taught in English with a strong emphasis on research. It is designed to prepare students for international careers in science and industry and to foster collaboration with researchers worldwide. Throughout the degree you will build specialist knowledge in solar system physics—topics include the formation and evolution of planetary systems, the Sun and its heliosphere, planetary surfaces, internal planetary structure and processes, and the atmospheres and magnetospheres of planetary bodies.

What you will learn The curriculum combines theoretical depth with practical, hands‑on training. You will gain experience with laboratory work, numerical simulations and data analysis, and you will learn contemporary research techniques and problem‑solving approaches. The programme also develops transferable skills such as scientific programming, science communication and systems thinking. The final eight‑month master’s thesis demonstrates your ability to plan and carry out an independent research project using accepted scientific methods.

Program structure and core modules The first year is devoted to deepening and applying knowledge from your bachelor’s studies, with practical training and specialization in subfields of solar system physics, plus interdisciplinary electives. A dedicated scientific key qualifications module covers scientific programming and communication. The second year is research‑oriented: a literature research module (including systems thinking and communication), a research internship for practical research experience, and the master’s thesis module for a largely independent research project. For full curricular details, consult the programme‑specific examination regulations.

Key modules and requirements (concise)

• Duration: 2 years (consecutive), full‑time, attendance‑based
• Language of instruction: English
• Research focus with strong practical training (laboratory work, simulations, data analysis)
• First year: in‑depth specialisation, special courses module, expansion of interdisciplinary knowledge, scientific key qualifications (including scientific programming and scientific communication)
• Second year: literature research module (systems thinking, communication), research internship module (practical scientific/research work), master’s thesis module (8‑month independent research project)
• Learning outcomes: specialist expertise in solar system physics topics (planetary formation/evolution, Sun/heliosphere, planetary surfaces, interiors, atmospheres and magnetospheres), advanced research methods, instrumental and multidisciplinary skills, independent scientific work and communication skills

For exact course contents, assessment rules and module descriptions, refer to the programme‑specific section of the university’s examination regulations.

Graduates are prepared for research and development roles in the aerospace sector, planetary science groups, space agencies and observatories, or for continued academic research (PhD). The programme’s combination of specialist knowledge, practical instrumentation and data-analysis skills and a substantial research thesis makes alumni attractive for positions involving space missions, planetary exploration and related high-technology industries.

Because the curriculum is delivered in English and emphasizes international networking and scientific communication, graduates are suited to work in global research teams and multinational organisations in space science and engineering.