This is in keeping with our basic goal of using what we have learned to anticipate and solve problems. We will begin with a review of what we know about the Earth, the Universe, the Solar System, and the history of life on Earth. With this background in hand we will then decide where to look for life and begin to develop the plans for the mission. We will need to look at energy sources, nutritional requirements, possible health risks, recycling systems, etc., to make sure our crew reaches their destination safely and can work once they get there. A more detailed outline can be found at the end of the syllabus.
All students are responsible for attending class and for the material presented in all classes.
Attendance is particularly important in this class because there will be a variety of in class activities and graded exercises that cannot be made up. There will be three unit exams, each worth 150 points. The exams will be broken into two equally weighted parts. The dates of these exams are included in the attached schedule of lectures. The article may be from any source, newspapers, magazines, or scientific publications, but must be at least 1000 words long.