ASTRO 6570 - [Physics of the Planets]

Spring. Next Offered: 2019-2020. 4 credits. Student option grading.

P. Nicholson.

A graduate-level introduction to Planetary Science with an emphasis on the application of basic physical principles. Topics to be covered include: planetary dynamics, including satellite orbits, tidal interactions, resonances and ring dynamics; an introduction to the theory of planetary interiors, gravitational fields, heat sources and rotational mechanics; reflected and thermal radiation; and the equilibrium structure and dynamics of planetary atmospheres.

Intended for graduate students and seniors in astronomy, physics, engineering and related fields. Numerous difficult problem sets, some involving numerical computation.