L&S Discovery Courses

LS C70T / Astronomy C12 / Earth and Planetary Science C12 

The Planets

Physical Science

A tour of the mysteries and inner workings of our solar system. What are planets made of? Why do they orbit the sun the way they do? How do planets form, and what are they made of? Why do some bizarre moons have oceans, volcanoes, and ice floes? What makes the Earth hospitable for life? Is the Earth a common type of planet or some cosmic quirk? This course will introduce basic physics, chemistry, and math to understand planets, moons, rings, comets, asteroids, atmospheres, and oceans. Understanding other worlds will help us save our own planet and help us understand our place in the universe.

Courtney Dressing headshot
Courtney Dressing (Astronomy)
Raymond Jeanloz faculty profile
Raymond Jeanloz (Earth & Planetary Science)

Terms Offered

  • Spring 2025
  • Spring 2024
  • Spring 2023
  • Spring 2022
  • Spring 2021
  • Spring 2020
  • Spring 2019
  • Spring 2018
  • Spring 2017
  • Spring 2016
  • Spring 2014
  • Spring 2013
  • Spring 2012
  • Spring 2011
  • Spring 2010
  • Spring 2009
  • Spring 2008
  • Spring 2007
  • Spring 2006