ASTR 107: Planetary Science – The Inner Planets is an introductory course that explores the characteristics, formation, and exploration of the four inner planets of our solar system: Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars. Through a combination of scientific principles, observational data, and spacecraft missions, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the geology, atmospheres, and potential for life on these terrestrial worlds. This course will delve into the unique features and processes that shape each planet, providing students with a foundation to comprehend the inner workings of our neighboring celestial bodies.
Curriculum
- 5 Sections
- 30 Lessons
- 10 Weeks
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- Section 1: Introduction to the Inner PlanetsIn this section, students will be introduced to the fundamental concepts of planetary science and the distinguishing features of the inner planets. They will explore the historical context of planetary exploration, discuss the challenges of studying the inner planets, and understand the comparative sizes, distances from the Sun, and orbital characteristics of Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars.7
- 1.1Lesson 1: Historical Overview of Planetary Exploration
- 1.2Lesson 2: Comparative Size and Distance from the Sun
- 1.3Lesson 3: Orbital Characteristics of the Inner Planets
- 1.4Lesson 4: Terrestrial vs. Jovian Planets: Key Differences
- 1.5Lesson 5: Introduction to Planetary Geology
- 1.6Lesson 6: Significance of the Inner Planets in Astrobiology
- 1.7Quiz: Section 110 Minutes0 Questions
- Section 2: Mercury: The Closest Planet to the SunIn this section, students will dive into the enigmatic world of Mercury. They will examine the planet’s unique geological features, its extreme temperature variations, and the mysteries surrounding its thin atmosphere. The lessons will cover topics such as Mercury’s formation, its surface composition, and the impact of solar radiation on the planet.7
- 2.1Lesson 1: Formation and Composition of Mercury
- 2.2Lesson 2: Mercury’s Surface Features and Geological Processes
- 2.3Lesson 3: Mercury’s Extreme Temperatures and Thin Atmosphere
- 2.4Lesson 4: Magnetic Field and Magnetosphere of Mercury
- 2.5Lesson 5: Messenger Mission: Insights from Spacecraft Observations
- 2.6Lesson 6: Prospects for Future Missions to Mercury
- 2.7Quiz: Section 210 Minutes0 Questions
- Section 3: Venus: Earths Twin PlanetSection Description: This section focuses on Venus, often referred to as Earth’s “sister” planet due to its similar size and composition. Students will explore Venus’ dense atmosphere, its runaway greenhouse effect, and the harsh conditions that make it inhospitable to life. They will also delve into the geological features of Venus, including its volcanic activity and impact craters.7
- 3.1Lesson 1: The Atmosphere of Venus: Composition and Structure
- 3.2Lesson 2: Runaway Greenhouse Effect and Venusian Climate
- 3.3Lesson 3: Surface Geology: Volcanism and Tectonic Activity on Venus
- 3.4Lesson 4: Venus’ Impact Craters and Their Significance
- 3.5Lesson 5: Exploration of Venus: Past and Future Missions
- 3.6Lesson 6: Venusian Clouds and Atmospheric Dynamics
- 3.7Quiz: Section 310 Minutes0 Questions
- Section 4: Earth: Our Home PlanetSection Description: This section delves into the unique characteristics of our home planet, Earth. Students will explore the Earth’s structure, its dynamic processes such as plate tectonics and weather patterns, and the conditions that support a diverse range of life. They will gain insights into the role of Earth’s atmosphere, hydrosphere, and geosphere in creating a habitable environment.7
- 4.1Lesson 1: Earth’s Layers: Crust, Mantle, and Core
- 4.2Lesson 2: Plate Tectonics: Shaping Earth’s Surface
- 4.3Lesson 3: Earthquakes and Volcanoes: Forces of Change
- 4.4Lesson 4: Earth’s Atmosphere and Climate Systems
- 4.5Lesson 5: The Hydrosphere: Oceans, Rivers, and Water Cycle
- 4.6Lesson 6: Biodiversity and the Interconnectedness of Earth’s Systems
- 4.7Quiz: Section 410 Minutes0 Questions
- Section 5: Mars: The Red PlanetSection Description: In this section, students will embark on an exploration of Mars, known as the “Red Planet.” They will investigate Mars’ geological features, its thin atmosphere, and the ongoing search for signs of past or present life. The lessons will cover topics such as Martian geology, the polar ice caps, the history of Mars missions, and the potential for human exploration in the future.7
- 5.1Lesson 1: Mars’ Geological Features: Mountains, Valleys, and Canyons
- 5.2Lesson 2: The Martian Atmosphere and Climate
- 5.3Lesson 3: Martian Polar Ice Caps: Composition and Dynamics
- 5.4Lesson 4: Mars Rovers and Landers: Unveiling Martian Secrets
- 5.5Lesson 5: Mars Missions: From Viking to Perseverance
- 5.6Lesson 6: Mars as a Potential Habitat for Human Exploration
- 5.7Quiz: Section 510 Minutes0 Questions
