VVZ API is not affiliated with ETH Zurich. Data might be outdated or incorrect. Please view the official ETHZ Vorlesungsverzeichnis for binding information.

651-4228-00L 3 Credits DR , MSC D-ITET , D-MAVT , D-PHYS , D-ERDW
You're viewing possible stale or outdated data. Please check the latest semester for more up-to-date information.

Topics in Planetary Sciences

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Paul Tackley, Dr. Cédric Gillmann, Prof. Dr. Maria Schönbächler, Prof. Dr. Henner Busemann
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-06-01 11:33:17

Abstract

The course is based on reading and understanding research papers. Topics vary and cover e.g. planetary geophysics, geochemistry and dynamics including new results from space missions or models of the dynamical evolution of planetary bodies as well as planet and solar system formation.Each selected research paper is presented by a student, who then also leads an open discussion on the topic.

Objective

The goal of the course is to discuss topics in planetary sciences in-depth, which were not covered in the general planetary science courses. The course particularly aims at training the student's ability to critically evaluate research papers, to summarize the findings concisely in an oral presentation, to discuss the science in a group and give constructive feedback on presentations. The course should enable the students to better understand the presented research, even if not in their fields of expertise and to convey scientific results to students with a distinct study direction (geology, geochemistry or geophysics).

Content

Topics, relevant papers selected typically from the recent literature by the lecturers, will vary. Suggestions from students are welcome but have to be discussed with a lecturer before the topics are listed and distributed. Special introductions are given to discuss good presentation practice. Topics could include, e.g.: - Formation of the solar system and the terrestrial planets - Evolution of terrestrial bodies (Mercury, Venus, Moon, Mars, Vesta and the other asteroids) - Active asteroids/main-belt comets, icy moons (Ganymede, Callisto, Enceladus), comets and the outer solar system - Geophysical, geomorphologic and geochemical exploration of planetary bodies (e.g., remote sensing, meteorite studies, seismology, modelling) - exoplanets and transiting bodies from outside the solar system

General Information

Language
English
Levels
DR , MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
ungraded semester performance

Registration & Places

Max Places
18

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture with exercise Topics in Planetary Sciences
  • Mon 16:15-18:00 (NO E 51.1)
2 h weekly

Offered In