Course Catalogue

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In this course we will explore the foundational concepts of planetary science as well as the fundamental outstanding questions of the field and how we are seeking to answer them through space exploration. Students will use real data from space missions, extraterrestrial materials and terrestrial analogues and apply them to build a comprehensive understanding of the current field of Planetary Science.

This course spans the entire of semester 1 and comprises two, three-hour session per week, containing an hour-long lecture and a two hour practical.  

A first or upper second-class Honours degree in a relevant STEM area or equivalent professional experience.
Students must also have at least level 1 mathematics that includes calculus (Scottish Advanced higher Maths or equivalent) and at least Level 1 Physics, Scottish Advanced higher Physics or equivalent).
For applicants where English is not a first language the student must have an IELTS score of 6.5 with no subtests under 6.0 or equivalent English language qualification.

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■ Working as a team, students will write a proposal for a scientific study designed to test a key theory of planetary science, including vision and approach as per UKRI funding guidelines. 55%

■ An oral assessment in the form of an interview, where teams will defend their proposal to an expert panel. 15%

■ Each student will submit a practical portfolio comprising one of the exercises from the practical sessions. 30%

The aim of this course is to increase students understanding of how our Solar System formed and evolved, and the history and findings from space mission exploration. Students will develop their professional interview skills and team working. This course will also prepare participants for the modern space sector through skills aligned assessments, including developing confidence in scientific writing.

By the end of this course students will be able to:

■ Critically assess the theories of solar system and planetary formation

■ Evaluate real space mission datasets and critique the previously published interpretations

■ Plan and prepare research proposals based on mission data, independent research and a critical evaluation of published literature to identify gaps in knowledge. Defend the proposal in an interview setting.

■ Analyse and evaluate the positive/negative societal and political implications of space exploration.

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.