[PTYS 170A1] Planet Earth: Evolution of the Habitable World (3) Course Website
This course develops a planetary perspective on the evolutionary processes that shaped Earth throughout history. We will examine why Earth is habitable, that is, why any kind of life can live on it, we will discuss the unique influences that biological processes and atmosphere/ocean systems have on each other, and we will review current notions of climate change, including evidence for the influence of human activities on it. This interdisciplinary treatment of Earth and its sister planets will encourage students to think about how science and engineering must be applied to today's challenges if humankind is to have a promising future on (and off) this planet. PTYS 170A1 is a Tier I Natural Science course in the University's general education curriculum. This course is co-convened (cross-listed) with ASTR 170A1.
[PTYS 411] Geology and Geophysics of the Solar System (3) Course Website
Geologic processes and landforms on satellites and the terrestrial planets, their modification under various planetary environments, and methods of analysis. PTYS 411 is equivalent to GEOS 411 and HWRS 411 (cross-listed). PTYS 411 is required for the PTYS Minor
[PTYS 594A] Planetary Geology Field Studies (1)
The acquisition of first-hand experience with geologic processes and features, focusing on how those features/processes relate to the surfaces of other planets and how accurately those features/processes can be deduced from remote sensing data. This is a three- to five-day field trip to an area of geologic interest where each student gives a short presentation to the group. This trip typically involves camping and occasional moderate hiking; students need to supply their own camping materials. Students may enroll in the course up to 10 times for credit but only three enrollments will count toward the major. Trip is led by a Planetary Sciences faculty member once per semester.
[PTYS 595B] Special Topics in Planetary Science (1-3) Course Website
Course will emphasize emerging and current topical research in Planetary Science; course will be offered as needed or required. Sample course topics might include an active spacecraft mission, an emerging research area, or new discoveries. Course may be co-convened with PTYS 495B. Graduate-level requirements may include an additional project for graduate credit and extra questions on exams, depending on the course/topic taught. Course may be repeated for credit 3x (or up to 9 units).
[PTYS 551] Remote Sensing of Planetary Surfaces (3) Course Website
Remote-sensing based exploration of planetary surfaces, including that of the Earth as relevant to other planets. Emphasis will be on compositional, geologic, and geophysical interpretations via remote sensing throughout the electromagnetic spectrum. Course will cover basic principles, image and spectroscopic analysis techniques, case studies in planetary remote sensing, and many examples from past, current, and potential future spacecraft missions. Equivalent to GEOS 551. PTYS is home department.