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651-7011-00L 4 Credits MSC D-ITET , D-ERDW , D-MAVT , D-PHYS
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Introduction to Planetary Science

Lecturers & Examiners: Dr. Cédric Gillmann, Prof. Dr. Maria Schönbächler, Prof. Dr. Henner Busemann, Dr. Mattias Ek, Dr. Anna Mittelholz
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:30:29

Abstract

This course aims to provide an understanding of the formation, evolution, composition, structure and dynamics of planetary bodies in our solar system and beyond, including new developments in the field and links to past, current and future space missions.

Objective

The goal of this course is to enable students to understand current knowledge and uncertainties regarding the formation, evolution, composition, structure and dynamics of planets, moons, asteroids and comets in our solar system, as well as ongoing discoveries from space missions and planets around other stars.

Content

The main topics covered are: Orbital Dynamics and Tides, Solar Heating and Energy Transport, Chronology and Compositions (bulk and isotopic), Geochemical Concepts, Planetary Atmospheres, Planetary Surfaces, Planetary Interiors, Asteroids and Meteorites, Comets, Planetary Rings, Magnetic Fields and Magnetospheres, the Sun and Stars, Planet Formation, Exoplanets and Exobiology. The lectures introduce the basics of the terrestrial and giant planets, comets, and asteroids, gained from modern space missions and the study of extraterrestrial material from both the physical and geochemical perspectives. Students will practice making quantitative calculations relevant to various aspects of these topics through homework.

General Information

Language
English
Levels
MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
end-of-semester examination
Mode
written 60 minutes
Aids
None
The final grade is calculated from the written examination and the exercises to be completed during the semester. Learning tasks (optional) provide an opportunity to improve grades. The overall grade can be improved by a maximum of +0.25. The maximum grade can also be achieved without the learning tasks.

Registration & Places

Priority: Registration for the course unit is only possible for the primary target group

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture with exercise Introduction to Planetary Sciences
This course is combination of lectures from 651-4010-00L Planetary Sciences: a Physical Perspective 651-4227-00L Planetary Sciences: a Chemical Perspective Students who completed one of these lectures are not entitled to register for this course.
  • Tue 14:15-16:00 (NO C 44)
  • Thu 10:15-12:00 (NO C 44)
34 h semesterly

Offered In