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Solar System 101 course for all levels

MD Diallo and Online Campus School

Let’s start with this great quote that I’ve found in the opening of Neil deGrasse Tyson book titled : Starry Messenger, Cosmic Perspectives on Civilization.

“You develop an instant global consciousness, a people orientation, an intense dissatisfaction with the state of the world, and a compulsion to do something about it.

From out there on the Moon, international politics look so petty. You want to grab a politician by the scruff of the neck and drag him a quarter of a million miles out and say,

“Look at that, you, s......b.....”  “

This quote is from : Edgar D. Mitchell, Apollo 14 Astronaut.

Read more

Let’s start with this great quote that I’ve found in the opening of Neil deGrasse Tyson book titled : Starry Messenger, Cosmic Perspectives on Civilization.

“You develop an instant global consciousness, a people orientation, an intense dissatisfaction with the state of the world, and a compulsion to do something about it.

From out there on the Moon, international politics look so petty. You want to grab a politician by the scruff of the neck and drag him a quarter of a million miles out and say,

“Look at that, you, s......b.....”  “

This quote is from : Edgar D. Mitchell, Apollo 14 Astronaut.

Would you like to learn and refresh your knowledge about :

  • What is Space ? How big is space ?

  • What is a Planet?

  • About our Solar System, the Sun

  • The Kuiper Belt, The Oort Cloud

  • Beyond Our Solar System with exoplanets, and galaxies.

  • Learn about And a lot more.

So if your answer is YES, then this course is perfect for you.

This course is largely inspired from NASA website.

And to quote again Neil deGrasse Tyson from his book : Starry Messenger, Cosmic Perspectives on Civilization.

“… imagine the day when all of civilization becomes spacefaring. Routine access to space will turn the Solar System into Earth’s backyard. With that access comes unlimited space-borne resources, rendering an entire category of human conflict obsolete. Access to space may be more than just the next frontier to explore; it could be civilization best hope for survival. “

So, let's move forward together as Thank you for joining me in this great space journey. And I will see you inside the course.

Ready, set, let’s go .

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Learn about our solar system and about space
  • About planets, dwarf planets, exoplanets and galaxies
  • Learn about our sun, the kuiper belt, the oort cloud and beyond
  • Moons in our solar system and eclipses
  • Asteroids, comets and meteors

Syllabus

Introduction

Quiz about Pluto

Course Introduction
Course updates
Read more
2024 Total Solar Eclipse across North America
Learn about Planet
Part 1 : What is a Planet
Part 2 : What is a Planet?
Introduction to our Solar System
Solar System : Overview

An Overview

In depth : Solar System

More on the solar system

Exploration : Solar System
Learn about the SUN
The SUN : An Overview

Check your knowledge !

The SUN : More details

Quiz about the SUN

The SUN : exploration
Learn about the Kuiper Belt
Kuiper Belt : Introduction

An Introduction

Kuiper Belt : more details

More details

Kuiper Belt : Exploration

Quiz !

Learn about the Oort cloud
Oort Cloud : an Introduction
Milky Way Galaxy: How Big is Space?
Quiz : Space
Oort Cloud : more details
What is out there?
Beyond Solar System : an Overview

Introduction Quiz

More details : Beyond our Solar System

Beyond Solar System

Exploring Beyond our Solar System
Learn about the Planet Mercury
Mercury : An introduction
Mercury : more details

Mercury

Mercury : Exploration
Learn about the planet Venus
Venus : Introduction

Introduction

Venus : more details

Radius !

Venus : Exploration
Learn about our home planet Earth
Earth : Introduction
Earth : details

About our home planet

Earth : exploration
Learn about Mars
Mars : Introduction

Introduction

Mars : More details
Mars : Exploration
Learn about the Planet : Jupiter
Jupiter : Introduction

An overview

Jupiter : More details

In depth

Jupiter : Exploration
Learn about Saturn
Saturn : an Introduction
Saturn : more details
Saturn : details
Saturn : exploration
Learn about Uranus
Uranus : Introduction

Overview

Uranus : more details
Uranus : more
Uranus : exploration
Learn about Neptune
Neptune : an Introduction
Neptune : Introduction
Neptune : details
Neptune : exploration
Learn about Pluto
Pluto : an Introduction
Pluto Quiz
Pluto : more details
Pluto Quiz : more
Learn about other dwarf Planets
Ceres : Dwarf planet
Ceres Quiz
Dwarf planets : Makemake, Haumea, Eris
More Dwarf planets
Planet X
Moons : an Overview
Learn about Moons in our Solar System
About Moons

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Provides an overview of the solar system, which can serve as a strong foundation for those new to astronomy and space science
Explores the Kuiper Belt and Oort Cloud, which are often glossed over in introductory astronomy courses, offering a more complete picture of our solar system
Includes quizzes throughout the course, which allows learners to check their knowledge and reinforce their understanding of key concepts
Inspired by NASA's website, which ensures the course material is based on reliable and up-to-date information about space and the solar system
Covers exoplanets and galaxies beyond our solar system, which broadens the scope of learning and introduces learners to the vastness of space
Features a section on the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse across North America, which connects the course material to a real-world astronomical event

Save this course

Save Solar System 101 course for all levels to your list so you can find it easily later:
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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Solar System 101 course for all levels with these activities:
Review Basic Physics Concepts
Reinforce your understanding of fundamental physics concepts like gravity and orbital mechanics to better grasp the dynamics of celestial bodies within the solar system.
Browse courses on Gravity
Show steps
  • Review definitions of key physics terms.
  • Work through practice problems related to gravity and motion.
  • Watch introductory videos on physics principles.
Explore NASA's Eyes on the Solar System
Enhance your understanding of the solar system by using NASA's interactive tool to visualize planets, moons, and spacecraft in real-time.
Show steps
  • Download and install the software.
  • Explore different planets and moons.
  • Track the locations of spacecraft.
Read 'A Brief History of Time'
Expand your understanding of the universe and the fundamental laws that govern it, providing a broader context for studying the solar system.
View You and the Universe on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read a chapter each week.
  • Take notes on key concepts.
  • Discuss the book with peers.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Create a Solar System Model
Solidify your understanding of the relative sizes and distances of planets by creating a physical or digital model of the solar system.
Show steps
  • Research the sizes and distances of planets.
  • Gather materials for your model.
  • Build and label your solar system model.
Read 'Cosmos'
Gain a broader perspective on the universe and humanity's place within it, enhancing your appreciation for the solar system's significance.
View The Cosmic Connection on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read a section of the book each week.
  • Reflect on the philosophical implications of the content.
  • Share your thoughts with others.
Design a Presentation on Exoplanets
Deepen your knowledge of exoplanets by researching and creating a presentation that covers their discovery, characteristics, and potential for habitability.
Show steps
  • Research different exoplanets and their properties.
  • Create slides with images and information.
  • Practice your presentation.
Research Potential Future Space Missions
Deepen your understanding of space exploration by researching and outlining potential future missions to planets, moons, or asteroids.
Show steps
  • Identify potential targets for future missions.
  • Research proposed mission concepts.
  • Outline the goals, challenges, and potential benefits of a mission.

Career center

Learners who complete Solar System 101 course for all levels will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Planetarium Presenter
A planetarium presenter creates engaging and educational experiences for audiences in a planetarium. The presenter uses their knowledge of astronomy to explain celestial phenomena and encourage public interest in the field. This course helps a presenter build a solid foundation in planetary science. The course covers the solar system, the sun, the Kuiper Belt, the Oort Cloud, and beyond. It also covers exoplanets and galaxies. A planetarium presenter will find the coverage of planetary bodies in our solar system like Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune, plus dwarf planets like Pluto, Ceres, Makemake, Haumea, and Eris is highly relevant to their work. This course is well-suited for anyone looking to become a planetarium presenter.
See salaries and explore the career path for Planetarium Presenter
Science Educator
A science educator inspires the next generation of scientists and engineers. They explain complex scientific topics, often in a classroom or public setting. The Solar System 101 course provides a strong foundation in astronomy, which is valuable for teaching the basics of planetary science with information about the solar system, planets, dwarf planets, exoplanets and galaxies. This course's exploration of the sun, Kuiper belt, Oort cloud, and beyond helps the science educator understand the universe. The course also covers information about moons, eclipses, asteroids, comets, and meteors. This course's focus on our solar system might be particularly helpful for a science educator teaching introductory astronomy courses.
See salaries and explore the career path for Science Educator
High School Teacher
A high school teacher is in charge of the educational and emotional development of students. The teacher delivers lessons in their area of expertise. This Solar System 101 course may be useful to the high school teacher as it teaches about our solar system. The course includes information about the sun, Kuiper belt, Oort cloud and beyond. In addition, this course may help the teacher by demonstrating information about planets, dwarf planets, exoplanets, and galaxies. This provides the foundational knowledge needed to teach science concepts that may be incorporated in various curricula. This course is relevant for those who seek to become a high school teacher.
See salaries and explore the career path for High School Teacher
Curriculum Developer
A curriculum developer designs and creates educational materials, ensuring that course content is accurate and engaging for students. This role requires a strong understanding of pedagogy and subject matter. The Solar System 101 course is useful for a curriculum developer creating materials related to astronomy or space science as it provides an overview of the solar system, the sun, the Kuiper Belt, the Oort Cloud, and beyond. They will learn about planets, dwarf planets, exoplanets and galaxies. This course’s coverage of our solar system and topics related to it may be particularly useful for the curriculum developer. This course is suitable for those wishing to become a curriculum developer.
See salaries and explore the career path for Curriculum Developer
Science Museum Curator
A science museum curator is responsible for the care, display, and interpretation of museum collections. This role requires a broad knowledge of scientific concepts and the ability to communicate them to a public audience. The Solar System 101 course may be useful for an aspiring science museum curator who will need a foundational understanding of astronomy. The course goes over the solar system, the sun, the Kuiper belt, the Oort cloud, and beyond. The curator may also find information about planets, dwarf planets, exoplanets and galaxies to be useful. This course may aid in ensuring the accuracy and relevance of museum exhibits in the area of planetary science.
See salaries and explore the career path for Science Museum Curator
Science Journalist
A science journalist communicates science to the general public through articles, blog posts, or documentaries. This career requires a deep understanding of the scientific method and the current state of scientific knowledge. The Solar System 101 course is useful for a science journalist in learning the basics of astronomy. This course covers the solar system, the sun, the Kuiper Belt, the Oort Cloud, and beyond. This may help a science journalist learn about planets, dwarf planets, exoplanets and galaxies. The journalist can then communicate this knowledge to the public with greater confidence. This course provides a broad understanding of our solar system that may be helpful to a science journalist.
See salaries and explore the career path for Science Journalist
Science Illustrator
A science illustrator creates visuals for textbooks, research papers, and other educational materials. They need a strong understanding of science and the ability to translate complex concepts into accurate and engaging illustrations. This Solar System 101 course may be useful for a science illustrator. The course teaches the basics of the solar system, the sun, the Kuiper Belt, the Oort Cloud, and beyond. This course will also introduce planets, dwarf planets, exoplanets, and galaxies. This course's detailed information about planetary bodies may help inform an illustrator's work. This course is well-suited for individuals who wish to become a science illustrator.
See salaries and explore the career path for Science Illustrator
Research Scientist
A research scientist designs and conducts studies to expand scientific knowledge, using the scientific method to develop and test theories. This often requires a master's degree. This course may be useful for research scientists who specialize in the areas of astronomy or astrophysics, as it provides an overview of our solar system, the sun, the Kuiper belt, the Oort cloud, and beyond. It covers planets, dwarf planets, exoplanets, and galaxies. This course may help to build a foundational understanding suitable for someone considering a career as a research scientist in a related area. This course can be a useful first step for aspiring scientists.
See salaries and explore the career path for Research Scientist
Astronomy Researcher
An astronomy researcher studies celestial objects and phenomena to expand our understanding of the universe. The role requires advanced knowledge and often involves conducting research using telescopes and analyzing data. This Solar System 101 course may be useful for those who seek to become astronomy researchers. While this course is an introduction to the solar system, it provides a useful overview of planets, dwarf planets, exoplanets, galaxies, and other bodies in the solar system, including the sun, Kuiper belt, and Oort cloud. This foundational knowledge is helpful for an aspiring astronomy researcher. This course's information about moons, eclipses, asteroids, comets, and meteors may also be valuable, despite the fact that advanced study is required to become an astronomy researcher.
See salaries and explore the career path for Astronomy Researcher
Space Policy Analyst
A space policy analyst researches and analyzes space-related policies and regulations. They use their knowledge of space, science, and law to advise policymakers on various issues. Though this career typically requires a master's degree, this course offers a helpful introduction to space science, including the solar system, the sun, the Kuiper Belt, the Oort Cloud, and beyond. This course may be helpful in understanding the scientific context of space exploration, which is vital for a space policy analyst. By exploring topics such as planets, dwarf planets and the scale of our solar system the analyst benefits. Taking this course may prove useful to someone interested in space policy, with this course offering a solid base of knowledge.
See salaries and explore the career path for Space Policy Analyst
Aerospace Engineer
An aerospace engineer designs, develops, and tests aircraft and spacecraft, focusing on how they function from the design stage to operations. This technical role requires a deep knowledge of physics, mathematics, and engineering principles for all phases of development. This Solar System 101 may be useful for understanding the environment in which spacecraft operate. The course covers planets, dwarf planets, exoplanets, galaxies, as well as the sun, the Kuiper belt, and the Oort cloud. This course also discusses moons, eclipses, asteroids, comets, and meteors. This course may help an aspiring aerospace engineer learn foundational knowledge of our solar system.
See salaries and explore the career path for Aerospace Engineer
Simulation Specialist
A simulation specialist develops and uses computer simulations to model real-world phenomena. They often work in industries such as aerospace, engineering, and research. The Solar System 101 course may be useful as it provides an overview of the solar system and related astronomical bodies. The course includes information about the sun, the Kuiper Belt, and the Oort Cloud. It also covers planets, dwarf planets, exoplanets, and galaxies. This foundational knowledge of the solar system may help a simulation specialist who needs to model space phenomena. This course may be useful for those who seek to become a simulation specialist.
See salaries and explore the career path for Simulation Specialist
Data Analyst
A data analyst interprets and visualizes data to help organizations make informed decisions. This role is often very technical. This course may be useful for data analysts who work in an aerospace field. This course offers a good foundational overview of the solar system. It explores the sun, Kuiper belt, and Oort cloud. Furthermore, it details planets, dwarf planets, exoplanets, and galaxies. A solid foundation in these areas may be helpful to the data analyst. This course may be useful for a data analyst in the space exploration industry.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst
Public Relations Specialist
A public relations specialist manages the public image of a person or an organization, developing and implementing effective communication strategies. While a technical background isn't always needed, a public relations specialist in a science field may benefit from an understanding of that topic. The Solar System 101 course provides an overview of planets, dwarf planets, exoplanets and galaxies as well as our solar system, the sun, the Kuiper belt, and the Oort cloud. This course explores many topics that may be relevant for an organization involved in space exploration. This course may be useful for a public relations specialist in this field.
See salaries and explore the career path for Public Relations Specialist
Software Developer
A software developer designs, programs, and tests software applications, often working in a team environment to meet specific requirements. This role is highly technical and requires a deep knowledge of programming languages. This Solar System 101 course may be useful for software developers in the aerospace industry who may need a basic understanding of astronomy concepts. The course provides some information about the solar system, the sun, the Kuiper Belt, the Oort Cloud, and beyond. It also covers planets, dwarf planets, exoplanets, and galaxies. This course may be useful for those who seek to become a software developer in a related field.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Developer

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Solar System 101 course for all levels.
Cover image
You and the Universe
Save
Provides a broad overview of cosmology, including the formation of the universe, black holes, and the nature of space and time. It offers valuable background knowledge for understanding the context of our solar system within the larger universe. While not directly focused on the solar system, it enhances comprehension of the fundamental principles governing celestial mechanics and the evolution of cosmic structures. This book is commonly used as additional reading for those interested in astrophysics.
You and the Universe
Paperback
Check
You and the Universe
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
The Cosmic Connection
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the universe, from the Big Bang to the search for extraterrestrial life. It offers a historical perspective on scientific discovery and emphasizes the interconnectedness of all things. While it covers a vast range of topics, it provides a strong foundation for understanding the context of our solar system within the cosmos. This book is valuable as additional reading and is commonly used by those interested in astronomy and space exploration.
The Cosmic Connection
Paperback
Check
The Cosmic Connection
Kindle Edition
Check

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Effort
6 total hours
Via
Udemy
Instructors
MD Diallo
Online Campus School
Language
English
Good to know
Provides an overview of the solar system, which can serve as a strong foundation for those new to astronomy and space science
Explores the Kuiper Belt and Oort Cloud, which are often glossed over in introductory astronomy courses, offering a more complete picture of our solar system
Includes quizzes throughout the course, which allows learners to check their knowledge and reinforce their understanding of key concepts
Inspired by NASA's website, which ensures the course material is based on reliable and up-to-date information about space and the solar system
Covers exoplanets and galaxies beyond our solar system, which broadens the scope of learning and introduces learners to the vastness of space
Features a section on the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse across North America, which connects the course material to a real-world astronomical event
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