PHYSC 154H - Life in the Universe - Honors

4 credits

An approach to the science of life beyond Earth, from the viewpoint of various physical sciences. Emphasis is on the physical processes that shape our understanding of life and the habitability of terrestrial planets. Specific topics include: the possibility of life within our solar system, planetary atmospheres and geophysics, the search for extra-solar planets, the feasibility of inter-stellar travel, and the search for extra-terrestrial intelligence. The social and philosophical implications of the course material is discussed. Lab activities include physics and geology investigations, as well as a class field trip.