Guided Primary Source Analysis: Geology of the Solar System

Zoom into this 1997 Geology of the Solar System map to read the text. List the challenges geologists face in mapping the solar system.

Choose one planet (Venus, Mercury, Earth, Mars) and summarize what you learned about it from the map. Compare your findings with a peer who chose a different planet.

Compare and contrast what you find on one moon from three different systems (Earth, Jovian, Saturnian, Uranian, Neptunian). Alternatively, you may compare three moons from the same system (Jovian, Saturnian, Uranian). Then search for more recent information on the systems and add your findings to your review.

What other observations, reflections or questions does this source inspire? Let us know!