Assistant Professor of Planetary Science and Astronomy
B.Sc., Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Mathematics & Physics), 2009; M.A., University of California, Berkeley, 2013; Ph.D., 2017. Caltech, 2019-.
Katherine de Kleer is interested in dynamic planetary processes and how they relate to the surface environments, atmospheres, and thermochemical histories of planets and satellites. Her research focuses on characterizing these processes through the application of statistical methods to telescope observations at optical through radio wavelengths. Her work to date has focused on topics including the atmospheric composition and global circulation of Uranus, Neptune, and Jupiter; the volcanism, atmosphere, and tidal heating of Io; and the sub-surface material properties of Europa, Callisto, and Ganymede. To learn more, visit her research webpage at http://web.gps.caltech.edu/~dekleer/
Ay/Ge 107. Introduction to Astronomical Observation.9 units (1-1-7); first term, 2020-21.Prerequisites: CS 1 or equivalent coding experience recommended.
This hands-on, project-based course covers the design, proposal, and execution of astronomical observations, the basics of data reduction and analysis, and interacting with astronomical survey catalogs. In the first module, students will learn to use small, portable telescopes and find and image objects of interest using finder charts. In the second module, students will use Palomar Observatory to propose and execute their own research projects focused on astrophysical or planetary topics. In the third module, students will query and work with data from on-line archives and catalogs. The scope of the course includes imaging and spectroscopic observational techniques at optical and infrared wavelengths. The format centers on projects and practical skills but also includes a lecture and problem set component to establish the theoretical underpinnings of the practical work. The course meets once a week in the evening, and there are 1-2 required field trips to Palomar Observatory. Not offered 2020-21.
Instructors: Hillenbrand, de Kleer
Ge 151. Planetary Surfaces.9 units (3-3-3); first term, 2020-21.
We will review the mechanisms responsible for the formation and modification of the surfaces of solar system bodies, studying both composition and physical processes. Topics include exogenous processes (impact cratering, space weathering) and endogenous processes (tectonic, volcanic, weathering, fluvial, aeolian, and periglacial) that shape the surfaces of planets. Lectures, occasional labs, and one required field trip.
Instructor: Ehlmann
Ge 194. Special Topics in Planetary Sciences.Units to be arranged; , 2019-20.
Offered by announcement only. Advanced-level discussions of problems of current interest in planetary sciences. Students may enroll for any or all terms of this course without regard to sequence.
Instructor: Staff
Research Website