9.1: Module Introduction
This module explores the minor bodies of the solar system: asteroids, comets, and dwarf planets, as well as meteors and meteorites.
Objectives
Upon completion of this module, the student will be able to:Upon completion of this module, the student will be able to:
- Differentiate between the types of minor bodies found in our solar system
- List the characteristics of asteroids, including Near-Earth Asteroids (NEOs) and Potentially-Hazardous Asteroids (PHAs)
- Differentiate among meteoroids, meteors, and meteorites
- List the characteristics of three types of meteorites
- List the characteristics of comets
- List the characteristics of centaurs
- Explain the discoveries of Pluto and Eris
- List the characteristics of the Trans-Neptunian objects, Kuiper Belt and the Oort Cloud