ERT 112LEC—The Planets

An introduction to the planets and the Solar System. Examining the evolution in our understanding planets from points of light in the night sky to the exploration of these bodies by human and robotic missions. The formation of the universe, our Sun, planets, moons, and other objects within the Solar System. Students will learn about the composition, structure, and physical properties of planetary bodies, asteroids, comets, gas and dust. There will be a focus on processes such as atmospheric circulation, volcanism, impact cratering, weathering, and erosion, and their ability to shape the evolution of these objects.