In 1968, a group of members of the American Astronomical Society (AAS) developed a sub-organization within the AAS devoted to solar system research.
The first organizing committee members were: E. Anders, L. Branscomb, J. W. Chamberlain, R. Goody, J. S. Hall, A. Kliore, M. B. Elroy, T. Owen, G. H. Pettengill, C. Sagan, and H. J. Smith.
Today, the DPS is the largest special interest Division of the AAS.
Ronald E. Doel; Solar System Astronomy in America: Communities, Patronage, and Interdisciplinary Science, 1920-1960.
Robert S. Kraemer & Roger D. Launius; Beyond the Moon: Golden Age of Planetary Exploration 1971-1978 (Smithsonian History of Aviation and Spaceflight Series).