651-4228-00L  Topics in Planetary Sciences

SemesterSpring Semester 2018
LecturersM. Schönbächler, M. D. Ballmer, H. Busemann, P. Tackley
Periodicityyearly recurring course
Language of instructionEnglish


AbstractThe course will be based on reading of research papers. Themes can vary from year to year and will cover planetary geophysics, geochemistry and the dynamical evolution of planetary bodies. The format of the course will be centered on short lectures introducing a theme, followed by a presentation of one or more papers by a student or group of students and an open discussion of the topic.
ObjectiveThe goal of the course is discuss topics in planetary sciences, which were not covered in the general planetary science courses. The course also aims at training the student's ability to critically evaluate research papers, to summarize the findings concisely in an oral presentation, and to discuss these in the group.
ContentThemes will vary from year to year and suggestions from students are welcome.

Possible topics include:
- Formation of the terrestrial planets
- Evolution of terrestrial bodies (Mercury, Venus, Moon, Mars, Vesta) and icy moons (Ganymede, Callisto, Enceladus)
- Active asteroids/main-belt comets
- Geophysical and geochemical exploration of planetary bodies (e.g., remote sensing, meteorite studies, seismology, electromagnetic sounding, gravity, and geodetic).
Prerequisites / NoticeThe students are expected to have passed either course 651-4010-00L Planetary Physics and Chemistry or course 651-4227-00L Planetary Geochemistry.