Learn about the science behind the current exploration of the solar system in this free class. Use principles from physics, chemistry, biology, and geology to understand the latest from Mars, comprehend the outer solar system, ponder planets outside our solar system, and search for habitability in our neighborhood and beyond. This course is generally taught at an advanced level assuming a prior knowledge of undergraduate math and physics, but the majority of the concepts and lectures can be understood without these prerequisites. The quizzes and final exam are designed to make you think critically about the material you have learned rather than to simply make you memorize facts. The class is expected to be challenging but rewarding.
Offered By
The Science of the Solar System
CaltechAbout this Course
Skills you will gain
- Solar Systems
- Chemistry
- Geology
- Astrobiology
Offered by

Caltech
Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering research and education institution, where extraordinary faculty and students seek answers to complex questions, discover new knowledge, lead innovation, and transform our future. Caltech's mission is to expand human knowledge and benefit society through research integrated with education. We investigate the most challenging, fundamental problems in science and technology in a singularly collegial, interdisciplinary atmosphere, while educating outstanding students to become creative members of society.
Syllabus - What you will learn from this course
Unit 1: Water on Mars (week 1)
Unit 1: Water on Mars (week 2)
Unit 1: Water on Mars (week 3)
Unit 2: The insides of giant planets (week 1)
Reviews
- 5 stars90.41%
- 4 stars5.86%
- 3 stars1.28%
- 2 stars0.71%
- 1 star1.71%
TOP REVIEWS FROM THE SCIENCE OF THE SOLAR SYSTEM
Challenging. Amazing. Mind-Blowing. Space enthusiasts should totally do this course. And yeah, did I say that Mike Brown is the coolest teacher ever. Never a dull moment in the lectures. :)
Excellent course with a great lecturer and guest lecturers. Interesting stuff about our solar system and the ways we explore it. Highly recommended!
The course instructor is the best part of this course. That guy (respectfully) is an awesome teacher, I wish everyone would get teachers like him. Overall I got to learn a lot.
An excellent introduction to planetary science. There are parts that are difficult to follow for a non-scientist, but the general principles are very well explained by Mike.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will I have access to the lectures and assignments?
What will I get if I purchase the Certificate?
Is financial aid available?
More questions? Visit the Learner Help Center.