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.
The Science of the Solar System
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Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
814 reviews
3 weeks to complete
at 10 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
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Assessments
10 assignments
Taught in English
91%
of learners achieved a positive career outcome
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There are 10 modules in this course
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(239 ratings)
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Explore more from Physics and Astronomy
American Museum of Natural History
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KC
Reviewed on Jun 6, 2020
While the course was challenging, it was really interesting and very well taught. It has encouraged me to pursue astrophysics further and I have improved my thinking skills because of it.
VA
Reviewed on Apr 25, 2025
Awesome course! Certain parts were a bit complex, but awesome in general. I wish it was refreshed with new data.
PK
Reviewed on May 24, 2019
The lectures are engaging and replete with thought provoking material. Professor Brown's in depth knowledge of the field and his passion for planetary science aroused an everlasting curiosity.
