Planetary and Space Science – Space Science Journal Guide for Researchers

Why Researchers Choose Planetary and Space Science for High-Impact Publications

Planetary and Space Science stands as a cornerstone in the field of space science, offering researchers a prestigious platform to disseminate groundbreaking findings on planetary systems, space physics, and astrophysical phenomena. Established in 1959 by Elsevier, this journal has evolved into a vital resource for the global scientific community, fostering advancements in understanding our solar system and beyond. With a focus on interdisciplinary research, it bridges planetary geology, atmospheric science, and space instrumentation, attracting contributions from leading experts worldwide.

The journal's rigorous peer-review process ensures that only high-quality, innovative studies are published, contributing to its solid reputation. Researchers value Planetary and Space Science for its ability to reach a wide audience, including astronomers, geophysicists, and space engineers. Its commitment to open science practices, such as data sharing and transparency, further enhances its appeal in an era where reproducibility is paramount.

Publishing in Planetary and Space Science not only elevates a researcher's profile but also amplifies the impact of their work through extensive indexing in major databases. Whether exploring exoplanets, solar wind interactions, or mission data analysis, contributors find a welcoming home for their discoveries. The journal's hybrid model allows flexibility in publication choices, balancing traditional subscription access with open access options for broader dissemination.

For those navigating academic careers, submitting to this journal can be a strategic move. It aligns with funding requirements for high-impact outputs and supports career progression in space science. Explore opportunities in higher education by checking space science academic jobs to complement your publication efforts.

Overview & History

Planetary and Space Science was founded in 1959, initially as a forum for the burgeoning field of space exploration during the Space Race era. Published by Elsevier in the Netherlands, it has chronicled key developments from early planetary probes to modern missions like NASA's Perseverance rover. Over six decades, the journal has published thousands of articles, shaping discourse in planetary and space science.

Its evolution reflects technological advances, expanding from solar system studies to include exoplanetary research and space weather. Elsevier's stewardship has ensured consistent quality, with editorial policies adapting to emerging challenges like climate impacts on planetary science. Today, it remains a bimonthly publication, integral to academic libraries and research institutions globally.

Scope and Disciplines Covered

The journal encompasses a broad spectrum of topics within space science, emphasizing original research and reviews. Key areas include planetary atmospheres, surfaces, interiors, and origins, alongside space plasma physics and instrumentation.

Interdisciplinary submissions are encouraged, particularly those integrating observational data with modeling.

Key Journal Metrics

These metrics highlight the journal's influence, with steady growth in citations reflecting its relevance.

Indexing and Abstracting

Planetary and Space Science is indexed in prestigious databases, ensuring visibility. It appears in Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed for relevant interdisciplinary content. Additional coverage includes INSPEC and GeoRef, facilitating discovery by engineers and geologists. Researchers can access abstracts via Scopus and full texts through Elsevier's platform.

Publication Model and Fees

As a hybrid journal, Planetary and Space Science offers subscription-based access with an open access option. Authors choosing gold open access pay an Article Processing Charge (APC) of approximately €3,090 (about $3,500 USD), covering peer review and dissemination. No fees apply for traditional publication. Policies align with Plan S compliance, promoting equitable access. Check Sherpa/RoMEO for self-archiving rights.

Submission Process and Guidelines

Submissions are handled via Elsevier's Editorial Manager system. Authors must prepare manuscripts in LaTeX or Word, adhering to guidelines on length (up to 8,000 words) and formatting. Ethical standards follow COPE, requiring originality declarations. The process involves initial screening, peer review (typically 2-3 months), and revisions. Detailed instructions are available on the official journal homepage.

Editorial Board Highlights

The editorial team comprises renowned experts, led by Editor-in-Chief Dr. François Forget from CNRS, France. Members include specialists from NASA, ESA, and universities worldwide, ensuring diverse perspectives. Their expertise spans planetary missions and theoretical modeling, guiding the journal's direction.

Why Publish in Planetary and Space Science?

Publishing here offers rapid dissemination, global reach, and enhanced citation potential. The journal's prestige aids in grant applications and tenure reviews. Its focus on timely topics like space debris and habitability attracts high-profile collaborations. For career advancement, pair publications with tools like Rate My Professor for networking insights.

Comparison with Similar Journals

Planetary and Space Science excels in space physics integration, distinguishing it from peers.

Researcher Tips for Successful Submission

• Align your work with current calls, such as exoplanet missions.
• Include high-quality figures and datasets for reproducibility.
• Seek pre-submission feedback via academic calendar events.
• Highlight interdisciplinary angles to broaden appeal.
• Proofread for clarity, as concise writing aids reviewers.

Success rates improve with these strategies, enhancing publication outcomes.