About the SPA Chapter

The ASA Joint Group on Stellar and Planetary astronomy is designed to coordinate national efforts to understand stars and planets and their co-evolution.

Chapter aims:

Coordinate stellar and planetary research in Australia and the region, across both theory and observation
Develop and strengthen links with planetary and space science communities in Australia and New Zealand, and their representative bodies
Organise annual workshops in stellar astronomy and exoplanets
Increase the visibility and connectedness of the stellar and planetary astronomy communities, both within Australia and internationally
Provide policy input and strategic direction to ASA, GSA, the National Committee for Astronomy, AAL and other bodies responsible for funding or coordinating stars and planets research in Australia and the region
Promote and grow the disciplines of stellar astronomy, exoplanets, planetary and space science within Australia

Chapter Committee

  • Orsola De Marco (Macquarie University)
  • Rebecca Nealon (Monash University)
  • Benjamin Pope (Macquarie University)
  • Kayla Martin (Macquarie University)
  • Sven Buder (Australian National University)
  • Laura Driessen (University of Sydney)

Annual Meetings: SPA Days in…

Each year, the SPA Chapter organises the Stellar and Planetary Astronomy (SPA) Days in… meeting, rotating between Australian institutions and bringing together researchers across stellar and planetary astrophysics.
Initially separate, the "Stars in..." and "Australian Exoplanet Workshop (AEW)" meetings have merged to highlight recent scientific advances, supports early-career researchers, and strengthens national collaborations.

Past meetings:

November 2025 Stars in Newcastle / Australian Exoplanet Workshop (Newcastle, NSW)

Become a member

We encourage all astronomers to join SPA and help shape stellar and planetary astronomy in Australia: how we develop and coordinate our expertise, our infrastructure, and our research. There is no cost to join, although current membership in the Astronomical Society of Australia is required.

As a member you'll have a say in the future of our community. You will receive updates with information about planned meetings, funding opportunities, and recent publications or other relevant news.

Get in touch

We welcome suggestions for meetings, collaborations, and community initiatives.