Faculty: David Baker
Description: For your entire life, you have lived on a small chunk of rock in the vast expanse of the universe. Yet at least in our solar system, there is nothing like planet Earth. What makes our home planet special? Could there be another Earth out there beyond our solar system? This course will explore historical and scientific views of Earth and its uniqueness in the universe. We will investigate the conditions necessary for an Earth-like planet to form, the delicate balance required to maintain a stable Earth-like environment, the changing scientific views of habitability, and the likelihood of finding another Earth. Using data from NASA’s TESS space telescope and Austin College’s Adams Observatory, we will hunt for planets beyond our solar system, from hot Jupiters to mini-Neptunes to small rocky planets. Your view of our home planet may never be the same.
Meeting Information: 1/04/2021-01/26/2021 On Campus Jan Term Course Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
01/04/2021-01/26/2021 Performance Activity Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Section Requisites: Instructor permission via e-mail required. Out of Pocket Expense: $100