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Remote Sensing and Planetary Surfaces

Overview

  • Credit value: 15 credits at Level 6
  • Convenor: Graham Driver
  • Assessment: two practicals (20% each), a 2000-word report and 10-minute presentation (20%) and a 2.5-hour examination (60%)

    Module description

    In this module you will gain an advanced understanding of the processes governing the evolution of planetary surfaces and the remote sensing methods used in their exploration. We will use a parallel approach, linking specific remote sensing techniques with related observations and knowledge of planetary surface processes.

    Indicative syllabus

    • The electromagnetic spectrum
    • Sensors, processing and geographic information systems
    • Impact Craters and planetary surface ages
    • LIDAR and topography
    • RADAR and hidden worlds
    • The infrared and composition 1 and 2
    • Short wavelength spectroscopy
    • Surface change 1: wind, water and ice
    • Surface change 2: active processes

    Learning objectives

    By the end of this module, you will be able to:

    • demonstrate knowledge of the specific aspects of remote sensing and planetary surfaces processes outlined in the syllabus
    • demonstrate an understanding of how different observational techniques can be used to test hypotheses and form theories regarding planetary surface processes.