The Exoplanet Revolution

Undergraduate

This course will examine the development and evolution of our understanding of the nature and origins of planetary systems before and after the discovery of the first exoplanets. Students will learn about the various methods used to detect and measure exoplanets, and will actively engage in the analysis of data collected through remote off-site telescopes. The course will include a review of recent discoveries regarding the different classes of planets that exist and their characteristics and origins. It will also look more closely at planets found in the habitable zones around their stars and the conditions that exist there, particularly in planetary atmospheres. Finally, it will review the latest developments in new telescope technologies and space missions and what their capabilities should allow astronomers to discover in coming years. (Prerequisite: PHYS-1000 or PHYS-1010.) (May be taken by B.Sc. students for credit, but does not count as a Physics course or other science course towards the fulfillment of the requirements for the B.Sc. degree.) (3 lecture hours a week.)