Earth Systems Science

Understanding changes in a complex web of interconnected systems

Our home planet, Earth, is a web of interconnected processes and systems—from the outer reaches of the atmosphere far from the boundary layer where we live, breathe, and eat, to the deepest rocks where earthquakes are triggered and precious minerals and resources are formed or stored. In seeking to understand how the parts of the Earth system interact, the critical element is time. When did an event take place? How fast does a process unfold in various parts of the system or under different conditions? How does an event in one part of the Earth system affect the rest of the system?

At CAMS, researchers measure ultra-rare isotopes found in materials such as rocks, minerals, plants, and bone. With this data in hand, they can reconstruct Earth’s history, expanding our understanding of processes and events in the world around us. This insight enables scientists to make better predictions regarding future Earth system changes and can help decision makers implement measures that protect critical infrastructure.

Research areas

Artistic rendering of NASA’s Genesis spacecraft.

Atmospheric and planetary science

Our scientists measure ultra-rare isotopes in samples from Earth’s upper atmosphere and outer space to understand the formation and development of our solar system.

Fossilized human footprints.

Environmental change

Researchers use the CAMS accelerator to measure the accumulation or decay of ultra-rare isotopes, providing insight regarding an area’s environmental history.

Researcher collects samples of the bedrock in Del Mar’s cliffs.

Landform evolution

Our scientists explore geomorphology—the shape of Earth’s surface—to understand how the land around us was shaped and how fast it’s changing.

Learn more

Zimmerman, Susan R.
Susan Zimmerman
 [email protected]
Hidy, Alan Joseph
Alan Hidy
 [email protected]
Publications

Explore publications authored by LLNL scientists regarding their Earth systems research at CAMS

Technology

Explore relevant instruments and technologies researchers at CAMS use to study Earth systems

Tyler Anderson

Scientist spotlight

Tyler Anderson’s research experience in astronomy, nuclear astrophysics, and planetary science enables him to bring a unique skillset to his work. At CAMS, he uses the accelerator to analyze isotopes found in rocks from Earth and from other parts of our solar system, in an effort to better understand how the planets formed. For example, he developed a research technique that combines geochemistry and mass spectrometry to measure micrograms of chlorine in lunar meteorites and other astromaterials. He’s applying the technique to make the first-ever measurements of chlorine in solar wind to learn more about the evolution of our solar system. He joined LLNL as a postdoc in 2023 after serving as a postdoc at NASA’s Johnson Space Center, and his current research involves ongoing collaborations with NASA scientists. Learn more about Tyler.