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
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
4.8
(790 reviews)
29 hours to complete
3 weeks at 9 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
96%
Most learners liked this course
Skills you'll gain
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Assessments
10 assignments
Taught in English
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There are 10 modules in this course
What's included
11 videos1 reading1 assignment3 discussion prompts
What's included
10 videos1 assignment1 discussion prompt
What's included
10 videos1 reading1 assignment1 discussion prompt
What's included
11 videos1 reading1 assignment1 discussion prompt
What's included
10 videos1 assignment2 discussion prompts
What's included
12 videos1 assignment1 discussion prompt
What's included
9 videos1 assignment1 discussion prompt
What's included
10 videos1 assignment1 discussion prompt
What's included
11 videos1 assignment2 discussion prompts
What's included
4 videos1 reading1 assignment
Instructor
Instructor ratings
4.9 (224 ratings)
Offered by
Recommended if you're interested in Physics and Astronomy
University at Buffalo
Dartmouth College
University of Colorado Boulder
University of Arizona
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Learner reviews
4.8
790 reviews
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LC
5
Reviewed on Jan 28, 2023
This was a fantastic course pitched at the right level. It was interesting and very informative and has sparked my desire to learn once again.
DA
5
Reviewed on Aug 10, 2020
Excellent course. Challenging but rewarding. The quizzes are well-designed and helpful. Totally recommend it to everyone interested in serious astronomy other than fun facts.
DT
5
Reviewed on Feb 10, 2024
Great course. Learned a lot. Presentational style very easy to understand, which made learning an enjoyable experience.
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Frequently asked questions
Access to lectures and assignments depends on your type of enrollment. If you take a course in audit mode, you will be able to see most course materials for free. To access graded assignments and to earn a Certificate, you will need to purchase the Certificate experience, during or after your audit. If you don't see the audit option:
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