Download 1/ph/lb exploring the solar system

1/PH/LB
EXPLORING THE SOLAR SYSTEM
Aim
This unit aims to provide students with an appreciation of the current state of knowledge of the various
bodies of the solar system, including their origin, evolution, composition and interaction. It introduces
the basic science and techniques of space flight, considering orbital mechanics and the technology
behind space exploration. This is a rapidly moving area, and any new discoveries or events during the
course are discussed.
Summary
The syllabus includes the following topics:
 Models of the Solar System: The geocentric system. The Copernican revolution and the heliocentric
model.
 The origin and evolution of the Solar System, principally the nebular theory
 The Sun as a star, power source and structure. The solar magnetic environment, solar wind and the
solar cycle.
 The major planets: Descriptions and comparisons of physical properties, structures, atmospheres
and satellites. Distinction between the terrestrial and jovian planets.
 The minor planets: The asteroid belt - discovery, structure and origin. Classes of asteroids. Comets
and other minor bodies.
 The Outer Solar System: Pluto and the Kuiper Belt, the Oort Cloud, the heliopause.
 Exploration of the Solar System: The basics of celestial mechanics, Hohmann transfer orbits, gravity
assist trajectories. Launch vehicles, space probe instrumentation, power sources and propulsion,
Communications.
 Past, present and planned missions: The early missions to the terrestrial planets. The search for life
on Mars by the Viking probes and the mapping of Venus by Magellan. The success of the Pioneers
and Voyagers to the jovian planets. The Galileo mission to Jupiter and the Cassini/Huygens probe
to Saturn. Exploration of comets.
 Possibilities for the future: The future of exploring the Solar System. The development of
propulsion and power sources, the possibilities of manned exploration.
Intended learning outcomes
After the unit each student should be able to:
 Critically evaluate the models of the solar system and its origin and discuss their scientific merits.
 Describe the structure of the sun, the nature of its power source and its relation to the rest of the
solar system.
 Compare and contrast the major planets, taking particular account of their origins, compositions
and evolutionary paths.
 Explain the existence and dynamics of the asteroid belt in terms of the presence of the major
planets.
 Describe the outer solar system and relate this to the presence of comets and other minor bodies in
the inner solar system.
 Evaluate simple problems in celestial mechanics, in particular the calculation of Hohmann transfer
orbit parameters.
 Discuss qualitatively more complex trajectories and strategies for reaching the outer planets.
 Describe the current state of space exploration technology, paying particular attention to power
sources, instrumentation and communications.
 Describe a number of current missions, relating the instrumentation of each to its stated science
programme.
 Appreciate the areas where knowledge is lacking and discuss strategies for overcoming such
problems.
Unit Prerequisites
 Simple mechanics developed in 1/PH/A1 Classical Mechanics.
 Basic skills in mathematics and geometry, as provided at ‘A’ level or 1/PH/H Mathematical Physics.
 Use of study skills developed in 1/PH/AA Concepts in Physics.
Teaching, Learning and Assessment Strategy
The unit comprises a series of lecture/discussion sessions utilising a number of methods of presenting
the material. Primarily, computer generated presentations are used, allowing good quality images,
diagrams and, where helpful, animations to be shown. Traditional 35mm slides are also used, as are
video tapes where appropriate to cover selected areas in particular detail. During the lecture/discussion
sessions, considerable interaction, both between lecturer and student and between students is
encouraged.
Two texts are recommended for this unit; “Universe” (W.J. Kaufmann), which is also used in later
modules on astronomy and astrophysics, and an in-house primary training manual provided by JPL.
The latter book is supplied at no cost to the students, and provides an excellent companion to the unit
subject matter. An internet web page (see section A1) is also provided. This contains the syllabus,
references to recommended texts, links to relevant external web pages as well as to a “news” page
containing recent developments.
The unit is assessed by three assignments set during the period of the unit (at three week intervals, with
the first being set during the first lecture) and by a formal examination of one hour duration following
completion of the unit. By using topics which are not discussed during lectures (but which none the
less are highly relevant) the assignments are designed to encourage students to research the subject area
beyond the lectures and to utilise the resources provided (in the form of the university library and the
web links described above amongst others) and their study skills to the full.
Marks are assigned 50% to the assignments and 50% to the examination. An average of at least 40% is
required for a pass, and re-assessment is by a 1 hour examination in the September following the initial
examination.
Term:
Lent
Size of unit:
1
Unit Code:
1/PH/LB
Modules:
PH207
Department:
Physics
Required for:
None
Pre-requisites:
None
Co-requisites:
None
Excluded units:
None
Convenor:/Lecturer:
Dr P.A. Hatherly
Teaching and Learning Methods:
Lectures, directed reading and internet information.
Problem solving/trouble-shooting workshops.
Assignments set during the course will require a significant degree of private study outside of the
formally timetabled schedule
Assessment
Coursework :
Examination:
3 assignments on selected topics
Formal University Examination, in April
duration 1 hour
Requirement for a Pass: An average of at least 40%
Re-assessment:
1-hour examination in September
Weight
50%
50%
12 March 1999