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Academic Year 2004/2005

The Planets
E&ES 151 SP
Crosslistings:
ASTR 103

More than 50 planets are now known in the Universe, 9 of which circle the Sun. NASA missions and improved telescopes and techniques have greatly increased our knowledge of them and understanding of their structure and evolution. In this course, we study the planets, beginning with the pivotal role that they played in the Copernican revolution, during which the true nature of the Earth as a planet was first recognized. We will study the geology of the Earth in some detail and apply this knowledge to our closest planetary neighbors-the Moon, Venus, and Mars. This is followed by a discussion of the giant planets and their moons and rings. We finish the discussion of the solar system with an examination of planetary building blocks-the meteorites, comets, and asteroids. Additional topics covered in the course include spacecraft exploration, extrasolar planetary systems, the formation of planets, life in the Universe, and the search for extraterrestrial intelligence.

MAJOR READINGS

THE NEW SOLAR SYSTEM, edited by J.K. Beatty, et al.

EXAMINATIONS AND ASSIGNMENTS

There will be two examinations during the term and a final exam. There are also weekly assignments in the laboratory section of the course as well as homework. The class will be divided into lab sections which meet weekly. Attendance at the labs is mandatory. The labs will involve some hands-on projects involving mapping in geology and observational work in astronomy. Some night-time viewing sessions will be scheduled.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS and/or COMMENTS

This course is primarily intended for non-science majors. Students considering a major in astronomy or E&ES should consider taking ASTR 155 or E&ES 101, rather than this course.

COURSE FORMAT: Lecture/Discussion

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Level: UGRD    Credit: 1.25    Gen Ed Area Dept: NSM E&ES    Grading Mode: Graded   

Prerequisites: NONE Links to Web Resources For This Course.

Last Updated on MAR-21-2005

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