Origins of planetary and satellite magnetic fields How the magnetic field and the structural evolution of a solar system body are related (core, magnetic anomalies, etc.) What the nature and role of tidal interaction are. Roles and effects of planetary and satellite magnetic fields How energy is extracted and converted in widely varying plasma regimes. How a magnetic field modulates the interaction between the surrounding plasma regime and the atmosphere and surface of planets (Mercury) or satellites (Europa). How solar wind/magnetospheric plasma interacts with an atmosphere and what the resulting effects on atmospheric evolution are (Mercury, Mars). How solar wind/magnetospheric plasma interacts with a regolith and what the resulting effects on the modification of planetary/satellite surfaces are (Mercury, Europa).

Flow of energy and mass through coupled magnetosphere- ionosphere-atmosphere systems How the absence of a strong magnetic field affects the dynamics of planetary upper atmospheres. How a planetary magnetosphere works in the absence of an ionosphere. How the direct interaction of an ionosphere with the surrounding plasma differs from an interaction mediated by a strong intrinsic magnetic field. How the rotational energy of a planet is dissipated in a magnetospheric system. Evolution of planetary magnetosphere/atmosphere systems At what rate the escape of volatiles from planetary atmospheres occurs. What processes are responsible for volatile escape. What the implications of volatile escape are for the past and present existence of liquid water; for the past and present conditions for the existence of life (and for the long-term sustainability of life on Earth); and for the chemical and isotopic composition of an atmosphere.