In discussing Neptune, astronomers explain that planet's similarities to Uranus and note important differences. The program also supplies information on Neptune's rings and one of its two major moons, Triton. Examines Pluto, the most distant planet in the solar system, and its moon, Charon. Astronomers explain the composition of meteorites and various theories about their origin. Provides information on the three classifications of asteroids and the relationship of each classification to the different types of meteors found on Earth's surface.
Astronomers describe how most asteroids orbit in a belt between Mars and Jupiter.
Astronomers offer two principal theories on comets - the oort cloud theory and the Kuiper belt theory. The program identifies the chemical of life, and astronomers explain how supernovae supplied calcium, iron, and all the other elements that are the basis of life. Next, it examines the roles of environment in allowing life forms to develop and to exist. The final segment explains the Drake equation, which attempts to estimate the number of technological civilization in a galaxy, and describe current efforts to search for extraterrestrial intelligence by monitoring radio wavelengths. Return to Course Selection Page .