Building Rocky Worlds Workshop
May 12-14, 2026
Rice University, Houston, Texas
The formation and long-term evolution of rocky planets involve tightly coupled physical, chemical, cosmochemical, and dynamical processes operating across a wide range of spatial and temporal scales. Recent advances in astronomical observations, laboratory experiments, meteoritic analyses, and numerical modeling now allow these processes to be studied within a more integrated and quantitative framework.
This workshop brings together researchers working on planet formation and evolution, cosmochemistry, interior dynamics, geochemistry, and surface evolution to foster cross-disciplinary discussions and to identify key open questions regarding the origin, differentiation, and long-term evolution of rocky worlds.
Thematic Areas
Accretion of Terrestrial Planets, Solar System Formation and Evolution
Physical and dynamical processes governing the growth and evolution of planets in the solar systemGeochemistry and Cosmochemistry of Astromaterials and Volatile Delivery
Constraints from meteorites, isotopes, and laboratory analyses on planetary compositions and volatile acquisition.
Planetary Differentiation and Interior–Surface Exchanges Through Time
Coupled chemical and physical evolution linking planetary interiors, surfaces, and atmospheres.