GLG 105 - Introduction to Planetary Science

1. discuss the major theories and evidence regarding the processes responsible for the formation of the Sun, Solar System and related objects;
2. compare and contrast these ideas and evidence with current new discoveries germane to these topics;
3. escribe the application of the scientific method and other critical thinking models to planetary objects, their exploration, as well as current limitations on Remote Sensing and space exploration technologies;
4. discuss past, present and future ideas, concepts, and approaches in Solar System exploration;
5. describe the Electromagnetic Spectrum and its relationship to remote sensing, spectroscopy and image processing as it pertains to the exploration of the Solar System;
6. analyze data returned from spacecraft instrumentation and apply the results to interpreting the geologic, atmospheric, and physical properties of planets, satellites, asteroids and comets;
7. recognize the basic geomorphology, geology and planetary processes of the Earth and, through extrapolation using Earth Analogs, compare and contrast the chemical composition and physical processes of the major bodies of our Solar System;
8. describe and assess the current theories and processes explaining the formation of the Sun and the Solar System;
9. discuss impact cratering, differentiation, tectonic, volcanism, hydrology, atmospherics, and aeolian driven of the major Solar System bodies;
10. employ the concept of crater counting used to date the Moon and collect data, build spreadsheets, plot data and calculate ages for other planetary surfaces;
11. recognize the terminology from astronomy, astrophysics, planetology and geology relevant to the study of planetary systems;
12. describe and illustrate the physical relationships of the Earth/Moon system;
13. describe the physiography, morphology, geology and atmospherics of the Terrestrial planets and their satellites;
14. describe the physiography, morphology, geology and atmospherics of the Outer Gas Giant planets and their satellites;
15. discuss and contrast the physical attributes and planetary significance of asteroids and comets;
16. discuss the characteristics, importance and place that Pluto, the Kuiper Belt and the Oort Cloud have in the understanding of our Solar System;
17. discuss and appraise `the current investigations and evidence regarding Exoplanets.