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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