The javelin event at the Interplanetary Olympics. Under what conditions could a javelin circle the planet and hit you in the back? (Image by MIT OpenCourseWare.)
Instructor(s)
Prof. Richard Binzel
MIT Course Number
12.400
As Taught In
Spring 2006
Level
Undergraduate
Course Description
Course Description
This is an introduction to the study of the solar system with emphasis on the latest spacecraft results. The subject covers basic principles rather than detailed mathematical and physical models. Topics include: an overview of the solar system, planetary orbits, rings, planetary formation, meteorites, asteroids, comets, planetary surfaces and cratering, planetary interiors, planetary atmospheres, and life in the solar system.