Professor David W Hughes explores the history of the search for asteroids

As we explore the Solar System, it is important that we do not accidentally contaminate untouched and unspoilt extraterrestrial environments in any way. In this free course you will learn about ‘Planetary Protection’ and why it is critical for our future exploration and use of space.

This course has been developed with support from the Committee on Space Research (COSPAR) Planetary Protection Panel and the UK Space Agency.

The new discipline of astrobiology that is, the science of searching for extraterrestrial life, is not only rapidly growing, but has also captured the public imagination. This free course, Icy bodies: Europa and elsewhere, examines the emergence of icy satellites of distant planets as potential sites of extraterrestrial life, looks at the potential for life on Jupiter's moon Europa, and speculates on the ethics of searching for life elsewhere in the solar system.

In this free course, Moons, explore the many moons of our Solar System. Find out what makes them special. Should we send humans to our Moon again?

Have you ever looked up into the night sky at the red planet and wanted to know more? Now here’s your chance to explore Mars.

Discover how asteroids and microbes flying through space could hold the secret to life on Earth - and maybe even Mars

From robotic telescopes to an asteroid pretending to be a moon on Mars, here are four articles about asteroids.

Deep Impact is a major space mission, which promises to expand our knowledge of the nature of comets massively. But not everyone views the mission without some misgivings. Here's how two of our experts respond to the challenge: "Deep Impact: serious science, cosmic vandalism or independence day publicity stunt?"

From its craters and atmosphere to flyp-by missions and Beagle 2 – explore Mars with our guide. Or, if you would like a more visual experience, why not investigate the red planet with our Mars interactive.