ASTR& 100 - Survey of Astronomy

5 Credits

Introductory course with emphasis on the astronomical concepts fundamental to present understanding of the universe. Topics include the solar system, stars, galaxies and cosmology.

Pre-requisite(s) MATH 081
Placement Eligibility Math 091 or higher
Course Note Previously P SCI 120.
Fees

Quarters Typically Offered
Summer Online
Fall Online
Winter Online
Spring Online

Designed to Serve General education students requiring distribution credits in natural science.
Active Date 2011-08-15

Grading Basis Decimal Grade
Class Limit 30
Contact Hours: Lecture 55 Lab 0 Field Studies 0 Clinical 0 Independent Studies 0
Total Contact Hours 55
Degree Distributions:
AA

Science

Course Outline
* History of astronomy (Kepler, Galileo, Newton) * The cosmic perspective (scale and motions) * Light and telescopes * The solar system and its evolution * Classification of stars (HR diagram, star clusters) * Stellar evolution (fusion, red giants, supernovas, white dwarfs) * Life in the Universe (extrasolar planets, SETI, Drake equation) * Cosmology (Big Bang, cosmic background radiation)

Student Learning Outcomes
Understand the course-specific content of astronomy.

Understand the questions and methods of research used by astronomers.

Communicate scientific ideas effectively (written/oral/electronic media).

Understand, interpret and assess the value of publicly presented astronomy issues.

Research topics relevant to course content (library/internet/interview).