Astronomy (ASTR)

An introductory course in astronomy, which includes the following topics: motions of celestial objects, eclipses, historical development, the nature of light, telescopes, properties and evolution of the solar system. May be used for general education credit.

An introductory course in astronomy which includes the following topics: the Sun, stellar properties, stellar evolution, black holes, the Milky Way, galactic evolution, quasars, cosmology. May be used for general education credit.

ASTR 220 is the first in a two-course sequence in general astronomy intended for students with a background in physics. Topics covered include: appearance and movements of the night sky; astronomical coordinate systems and timekeeping; seasons, eclipses and planetary configurations; planetary motions and gravitation; fundamental forces; electromagnetic radiation and its detection; content, structure, formation and evolution of solar system; observations and models of the Sun, stellar interior models; stellar magnitudes and spectra, classifications; Hertzsprung-Russell diagram.

ASTR 221 is the second in a two-course sequence in general astronomy intended for students interested in science. Topics covered include: stellar evolution; variability and high-energy phenomena in stars and multiple-star systems; content, structure, and dynamics of the Milky Way; external galaxies, quasars and AGN; large-scale structure and the distance scale of the universe; the Big Bang model and alternative cosmologies, possible geometries and eventual fates of the universe. An observational astronomy laboratory component is part of this course. The lab component will cover basics of telescope set up and operation as well as astronomical coordinate systems.

Topics in astronomy at the second year level. May be repeated for credit when course content changes. Topics selected may dictate prerequisites. Students should consult instructor prior to enrolling for course.

A study of the search for life in the universe, with emphasis on teacher preparation. Topics include how life on earth can guide the search, conditions for life within our solar system, extrasolar planets that may be conducive to life, possible radio communications with other civilizations and technologies necessary for search. Significant time is spent developing student lesson plans.

An overview of modern astronomical techniques with an emphasis on quantitative data collection and analysis. The design and use of various astronomical devices will be covered. Topics will include visible light telescopes and radio telescopes as well as CCD data collection in addition to other current astronomical techniques. Data reduction software will also be addressed.

The basic mathematical descriptions of both Einstein's special and general theories of relativity are introduced through specific physical cases and calculus-based lectures. Special relativity is explored through its physical consequences on a variety of phenomena. General relativity is studied by considering the effects of gravity on space-time curvature on astrophysical objects. Simple numerical experiments in both special and general relativity will be conducted as class projects.

An individual project related to some aspect of physics or astronomy. Must be under the guidance of a faculty advisor. A student may not earn more than a total of 4 credits for PHYS 398 and ASTR 398.

An introduction to the problems of modern astronomy and the quantitative application of physical principles to these problems. Topics of study include stellar structure and evolution, the interstellar medium and star formation, cosmic rays, pulsars, galactic structure, extragalactic astronomy and cosmology.

Research in a selected area of physics or astronomy as arranged with a faculty research advisor. A student may not earn more than a total of 6 credits for ASTR 498 / PHYS 498. Prerequisite: Proposal for study must be approved prior to registration.