Outreach Lecture on Planetary Science Research
On November 5, 2025, the Institute of Planetary Materials（IPM） at Okayama University held an outreach lecture on the university’s campus. The event was designed to showcase cutting-edge research being conducted at the Institute in the fields of planetary science and space physics, which are among the university’s key research areas. The aim was to promote the development of these fields at the university through interaction with researchers and students from different disciplines.
During the event, Associate Professor Takuya Kunihiro, Associate Professor Trishit Ruj, and Professor Makiko Ohtake presented their research on the following topics:
“Exploring the Evolution of Early Solar System Materials through Ryugu Samples”
”History of Water On Mars”
“Investigating Lunar Water by LUPEX mission”
The researchers explained these cutting-edge research topics in plain language, making them accessible even to those without specialized knowledge.
Alongside the lectures, demonstrations were held showcasing sub-micron scale analytical techniques for studying meteorites and asteroid samples, as well as remote access for scanning electron microscope observations. Participants had the opportunity to experience research methods firsthand, providing a sense of being in a real research environment. Attendees expressed their impressions, including comments like, “The scanning electron microscope observations of Ryugu were especially memorable” and “I learned that meteorites hold the key to understanding the formation of the solar system.”
Several participants shared their thoughts on the event:
“Even though it’s outside my area of expertise, it was incredibly interesting.”
“I had no idea that engineering methods are applied in planetary and celestial research, which broadened my perspective.”
“It was a rare opportunity to directly learn about research activities in Misasa. I hope these kinds of events continue, even online.”
“This made me rethink the conditions for water’s existence and its relationship to planetary environments.”
“I realized how studying materials from the solar system can help us understand Earth’s environment.”
This outreach lecture allowed us to communicate the diverse research themes and analytical techniques of the Institute to the campus community. Moreover, the lively and open atmosphere at the KIBINOVE venue helped foster close interaction between the lecturers and the participants, encouraging active discussions. It was a meaningful opportunity for interdisciplinary collaboration, combining education and research.
We would like to express our gratitude to all those who participated.
IPM will continue to actively promote intellectual exchanges across disciplines through outreach lectures, online discussions, and collaborative research.
