Solar System Astronomy

Doelstellingen van dit vak

• Introduce the electromagnetic spectrum and usefulness of spectroscopic observations, including: blackbody thermal radiation, emission/absorption spectra and how they can be used to determine relative radial velocities, surface temperatures and chemical composition of objects throughout our universe. • Interpret historical observations of planetary positions and their influence on early models of solar system motions. • Introduce scientific understanding of our solar system, including: the planets, their moons, asteroids, comets and dwarf planets. • Understand currently accepted formation scenarios of the solar nebula. • Describe mechanisms that modify the surfaces of terrestrial planets: such as volcanism, impact cratering, tectonism (including geomagnetism) and erosion. • Compare and contrast characteristics of the capability of various solar system bodies in retaining various atmospheric constituents. • Summarize physical properties and orbital characteristics of minor bodies.