Course focuses on the nature and formation of our solar system and the planets associated bodies it contains, with emphasis on the physical and chemical processes significant in the system's origin and evolutionary history. Our approach provides the basis for understanding key differences between the Earth-like terrestrial planets and those farther out in the solar system (the gas giants). We also explore recent discoveries on Mars and moons of the gas giant planets and their implications for the search for life elsewhere in our solar system. Special fee.