
Introduction to Earth Science296-102 Class 25: Tour of the Solar System
Geology past the Earth • The principles of geology can be used to study the surfaces of other planets.
Terrestrial planets • Mercury, Venus, Earth and Mars • Moons of Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune • Pluto/Charon
Mercury • Mercury has a lunar-like geology. Caloris Basin
Mercury • Mercury is almost tidally locked, like the Moon. Santa Maria Rupes
Venus • Venus’ surface has only been revealed in the past 10 years.
Venus • The surface of Venus is like the surface of hell.
Venus • Venus has a young, basaltic surface.
Mars • Mars has the most Earth-like geology.
Mars • Mars has a thin atmosphere of CO2.
Mars • Familiar geologic features/processes.
Mars • Familiar geologic features/processes.
Mars • Mars’ geologic history was once warmer and wetter than now.
Jupiter • Jupiter’s geologic features are all atmospheric.
Moons of Jupiter • Io is the most active body in the Solar System.
Moons of Jupiter • “All these worlds are yours except Europa…”
Moons of Jupiter • Ganymede and Callisto are two of the larger bodies in the Solar System.
Saturn • Saturn is the furthest out of the historical planets.
Uranus & moons • Uranus orbits the Sun on its side.