Astronomy

AST 313 Observational Astronomy

Credit:

Half credit.*

Prerequisite:

see below

Prerequisites: Algebra II, physics recommended, and approval of both the instructor and the student’s DL. Ability and willingness to attend class in the evening.

This course emphasizes the observational aspects of astronomy. Topics include the relationship between the earth and sky, the sun, the moon and the planets of the solar system, and the nature and distribution of stars and galaxies. Students will become familiar with the night sky through observation and the use of star maps and computer planetarium programs. We will begin our observations with the unaided human eye and progress to binoculars and telescopes. Students will use their knowledge of the observing tools and the night sky to locate and study many objects including planets, binary and variable stars, star clusters, nebulae, and galaxies. An understanding of the stellar coordinate system and basic celestial mechanics will serve as a basis for understanding how a telescope mount works. Students will become familiar with the charge-coupled-device (CCD), the heart of the digital imager, and elementary image processing. Our final goal will be to spend the remaining time of the course taking digital images of the objects we have been studying throughout the semester. Class will meet outside at the NMH observatory on clear evenings and indoors during cloudy weather.

AST 411 Astronomy

Credit:

One credit.*

Prerequisite:

Algebra II and a C or better in chemistry or physics.

Open to juniors and seniors.

This intensive introduction to astronomy uses a wide variety of learning tools to guide students towards a comprehensive understanding of our Universe and our place in space and time. Topics include traditional sky and constellation work, the solar system, stars and stellar evolution, black holes, galaxies, quasars, and cosmology, as time and interest permit. We will pay attention to current space news and missions. When the space shuttle launches we will follow the mission closely. We periodically participate in near Earth asteroid and supernova searches with other schools and students around the globe. Class activities will include discussions, videos, slides, and Starry Night software for astronomy explorations and sky simulation work. Hands-On Universe curriculum materials will allow students to gain a better understanding of what and how we know what we think we know about the Universe by guiding them in the analysis of real astronomical images from telescopes around the globe. Students will be expected to attend periodic required "homework" observing sessions throughout the semester as weather permits. Hands-on binocular and telescope use will be part of these observing sessions as the course progresses.