Planetary Geology

Catalog description

This course will focus on the Earth and its local planetary neighbors utilizing the vast amount of information that has been and continues to be acquired by space probes as well as manned lunar missions. Exposure to comparisons with other nearby planets and planetary objects will allow a better understanding of the Earth, especially our impact on climate and resources. New discoveries and observations in planetary geology demonstrate how the field of geology has changed dramatically since the inception of the "space age". This class will provide students with new insights into planetary evolution, the impact of the space program on our societal needs, and challenge them to critically evaluate data. Lecture, 3 hours/week; Laboratory, 2 hours/week.