Detailed course offerings (Time Schedule) are available for
ASTR 101 Astronomy (5) NSc, RSN
Introduction to the universe, with emphasis on conceptual, as contrasted with mathematical, comprehension. Modern theories, observations; ideas concerning nature, evolution of galaxies; quasars, stars, black holes, planets, solar system. Not intended for upper-division students majoring in physical sciences or engineering. Cannot be taken for credit if credit has already been earned for ASTR 201. Course overlaps with: ASTR 102. Offered: AWSpS.
ASTR 102 Introduction to Astronomy (5) NSc, RSN
Emphasis on mathematical and physical comprehension of nature, the sun, stars, galaxies, and cosmology. Designed for students who have had algebra and trigonometry and high school or introductory-level college physics. Cannot be taken for credit if credit has already been earned for ASTR 201. Course equivalent to: T PHYS 111. Course overlaps with: ASTR 101 and ASTR 301. Offered: A.
ASTR 105 Exploring the Moon (5) NSc
Examines the questions why did we go to the moon, what did we learn, and why do we want to go back. Offered: W.
ASTR 109 Measuring the Universe (3) SSc/NSc
How did we measure the distance to the Sun, the mass of the Earth, the age of the Universe? How do we know that everyday matter is composed of atoms? Provides a mostly descriptive, historical introduction to the methods different societies have devised to solve such quandaries, in the process constraining nature's laws and shaping the physical sciences into their modern form.
ASTR 150 The Planets (5) NSc, RSN
For liberal arts and beginning science students. Survey of the planets of the solar system, with emphases on recent space exploration of the planets and on the comparative evolution of the Earth and the other planets. Offered: AWSpS.
ASTR 160 Introduction to Exoplanets (3/5) NSc
Introduction to exoplanets. Explores how studies of extrasolar planets have changed our views of how planets and planetary systems form and evolve. Examines the science behind the search for Earth-like planets and life beyond our Solar System. Course overlaps with: ASTR 419.
ASTR 190 Modern Topics in Astronomy for Non-Science Majors (3/5, max. 10) NSc
Topics of current interest, such as origin of chemical elements, novae and supernovae, white dwarfs, neutron stars, black holes, active galaxies, quasars, or interstellar medium and astrochemistry. Choice of topics depends on instructor and class interest. Prerequisite: either one 100- or one 200-level ASTR course.
ASTR 192 Pre-Major in Astronomy Research Seminar (3-5) NSc
Introduction to astronomical computing and research methods for students interested in astronomy and in the premajor-in-astronomy program. Co-requisite: ASTR 102. Offered: A.
ASTR 201 The Universe and the Origin of Life (5) NSc, RSN
Sequel to 101 or 102, emphasizing modern views of the atomic and molecular evolution of the universe from the initial "big bang" through the formation of the solar system and the emergence of biological forms on the earth. The latter part of the course considers questions about the existence of, and communication with, extraterrestrial intelligent life, and finally the ultimate fate of the cosmos.
ASTR 210 Distance and Time: Size and Age in the Universe (5) NSc, RSN
Space and time as basic concepts in physical science. How we define and measure them, how the concepts have developed over the centuries, and how modern measurements allow us to determine the size and age of the universe.
ASTR 211 The Universe and Change (5) NSc, RSN
Gravity as central to the form and evolution of the universe. Conceptual formulation of gravity from the Renaissance to Einstein. Its consequences from the falling of an apple to the slowing of the expansion of the universe. Offered: W.
ASTR 216 The Impact Threat to Earth (3) NSc
Earth has been hit by large rocks in the past, and will be hit by such rocks in the future. Explores the history and future of impacts on Earth. Investigates why and how often we are hit, how big is the material that hits us. What can we do about it? Recommended: ASTR 101 or ASTR 150. Offered: Sp.
ASTR 270 Public Outreach in Astronomy (3) A&H/NSc
Emphasis on giving effective scientific presentations, developing and giving educational programs to school-age groups, and communicating knowledge of astronomy to others. Give talks at the Jacobsen Observatory on campus and presentations in the Astronomy Department's planetarium. Learn to operate a telescope and the planetarium equipment. Prerequisite: one astronomy course at either the 100-, 200-, or 300-level. Offered: Sp.
ASTR 300 Introduction to Programming for Astronomical Applications (3) RSN
Introduction to programming needed for astronomical applications: Linux operating systems, PERL, IDL. Recommended for astronomy majors planning to take 400-level astronomy courses, to pursue individual research projects, or to apply f