Space science and astronomy are closely related fields, but they are not the same. Astronomy primarily focuses on the study of celestial objects such as stars, planets, comets, and galaxies, as well as phenomena that occur outside the Earth’s atmosphere. It involves observing and understanding these entities’ properties, behaviors, and the fundamental laws that govern them.
On the other hand, space science encompasses a broader range of disciplines that study not only celestial objects but also the physical and chemical processes occurring in space. This includes planetary science, astrophysics, space weather, and cosmology, among others. Space science often employs various technologies such as satellites, space probes, and telescopes to gather data both from our solar system and beyond.
In summary, while astronomy is a vital part of space science, space science includes additional fields that look at the broader context of space phenomena, making it a more inclusive term.