Remote Sensing and Planetary Surfaces

• 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%)

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

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.