3 credits
Fall 2025 Lecture Upper Division
In this course we will review the history of the scientific exploration of the Moon since the dawn of the space age. Our focus will be on the science problems that motivated researchers in their scientific investigations of the Moon and the results that they obtained. The course will then transition to modern theory and the fringes of our understanding related to Moon formation and evolution. Here the course will make extensive use of primary peer-reviewed literature, and facilitate open discussion intended to cultivate original thought or new testable hypotheses aimed at advancing outstanding issues in lunar science. Part of this course will also be devoted to understanding the technical language and terminology used in lunar science, as well as general strategies for reading and understanding scientific literature.
Learning Outcomes1Appreciate the immense body of scientific knowledge enabled by the exploration of the Moon.
2Identify scientifically important lunar geographical features through daily readings, in-class discussions, and quizzes.
3Understand the constraints on our current models for the origin and evolution of the Moon.
4Identify the knowledge gaps in our current models for the origin and evolution of the Moon and how future missions could be designed to close those gaps.
5Apply learned skills and strategies for reading, comprehending, and assessing primary scientific literature.
Restrictions
made by Purdue students.