Teaching & Outreach
I am passionate about promoting planetary science, and I love to talk to and educate people about what we know about geology in our Solar System.
Geology of the Solar System II - Associate Lecturer
2021/22
2022/23
2023/24
Birkbeck University of London,
UK15 credits
Level 5 module for BSc students
We aimed to introduce students to the geological history and processes of the bodies in our solar system. We compare and contrast these features to illustrate how this knowledge has led to our current understanding of the origin and geological evolution of the solar system. This covers all the major large and small bodies of the solar system and gives the students a thorough knowledge of the history of space exploration of these bodies. Students are assessed through coursework and an exam designed to help improve their analysing and interpreting skills using remote sensing datasets such as images and topographic maps. Lecture topics include...
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​Martian geology, geography, geochemistry, stratigraphy, surface age dating, water history, and active surface processes.
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Rocky terrestrial planet geology and geological processes.
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Terrestrial planetary atmospheres.
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Giant planet characteristics.
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Geology of the giant planet satellites, including their implications for life.
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Asteroids and Meteorites.
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The origin of the solar system.
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Pluto, the Kuiper Belt, and Comets.
Remote Sensing and Planetary Surfaces - Associate Lecturer
2023/24
Birkbeck University of London,
UK15 credits
Level 6 module for BSc students
In this module we advanced our students understanding of the processes governing the evolution of planetary surfaces and the remote sensing methods used in their exploration. We used a parallel approach, linking specific remote sensing techniques with related observations and knowledge of planetary surface processes. This involved reports, crater counting exercises, and CRISM spectroscpoy analysis. Topics covered include...
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Introduction to the electromagnetic spectrum.
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Sensors, processing and geographic information systems.
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Impact craters and planetary surface ages.
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LIDAR, topography, RADAR and hidden worlds.
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Infrared composition and short wavelength spectroscopy.
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Surface changes: wind, water, ice, and active processes.
Planetary Exploration Analogue Mission for Astrobiology
Associate Lecturer
2023/24
Birkbeck University of London,
UK15 credits
Level 7 module for MSc students
Working with my company TerraLabs, students must organise a virtual rover mission to a planetary surface analogue. This involves working together as a team of 'mission scientists' to decide on the aims of the mission, the nature of the instrumentation required and to deal with the constraints of time, fuel and data upload. The mission lasted six weeks, with students directing the rover to visit localities on the surface of the planetary analogue. Students must write up their own account of the mission and its accomplishments for the 'funding agency' as well as writing a press release for the public.
Public Outreach
I have been involved in several public outreach events and am always looking to do more. Please get in touch with me if you would like me to assist at any outreach events.
