2002-2003 Undergraduate Catalog Course Descriptions - Astronomy

ASTR 105G. The Planets 4 cr.
Comparative study of the planets, moons, comets, and asteroids which comprise the solar system. Emphasis on geological and physical processes which shape the surfaces and atmospheres of the planets. Laboratory exercises include analysis of images returned by spacecraft. Intended for non-science majors, but some basic math required. Satisfies general education requirement IIB.

ASTR 109. Survey of Astronomy 3 cr.
Observations, theories, and methods of modern astronomy. General study for nonscience or science majors. Nonmathematical treatment. Lecture with some optional observatory instruction.

ASTR 110G. Introduction to Astronomy 4 cr. (3+3P)
A survey of the universe. Observations, theories, and methods of modern astronomy. Topics include planets, stars and stellar systems, black holes and neutron stars, supernovas and gaseous nebulae, galaxies and quasars, and cosmology. Emphasis on physical principles involving gravity, light, and optics (telescopes). Generally non-mathematical. Laboratory involves use of the campus observatory and exercises designed to experimentally illustrate principles of astronomy.

ASTR 210. The Search for Extraterrestrial Life 3 cr.
Recent discoveries concerning life within the Solar System are discussed and generalized to other star systems. Current space travel and interstellar communication efforts are reviewed.

ASTR 301G. Revolutionary Ideas in Science 3 cr.
Examines fundamental scientific revolutions that have shaped our view of Earth and the universe. Topics range from biology to geology to astronomy and provide the perspective necessary to evaluate scientific issues in current public policy debates. Includes in-class debates. Prerequisite: any general education science course.

ASTR 305G. The Search for Life in the Universe 3 cr.
Use of information from several of the sciences to explore the likelihood that life exists elsewhere in the universe. Subjects include an overview of historical ideas about the possibility of life elsewhere in the universe, the chemistry and biology of life on Earth, recent explorations for life within our solar system, and current search strategies for life in the universe and their scientific basis.

ASTR 308G. Into the Final Frontier 3 cr.
Exploration of space: a brief review of the history of space flight, the Apollo program, joint U.S.-Soviet space missions, and unstaffed exploration of the planets. Emphasis on knowledge gained through these efforts. Includes new space initiatives. Same as HON 308G.

ASTR 330G. Planetary Exploration 3 cr.
A current planetary mission is studied within the context of the solar system. The data acquired and principles involved in executing the mission, as well as political and economic implications, are examined. Prerequisite: MATH 142G or equivalent. Same as HON 330G.

ASTR 400. Undergraduate Research 1-3 cr.
Supervised individual study or research. Prerequisite: consent of instructor. May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credits.

ASTR 405. Astronomy and Astrophysics I 3 cr.
Application of physical principles to problems in modern astronomy. Emphasis on radiation mechanisms and radiation transfer in astronomical systems. Prerequisite: consent of instructor. No S/U grading. Same as ASTR 505 with less advanced work.

ASTR 406. Astronomy and Astrophysics II 3 cr.
Sequel to ASTR 405 with emphasis on basic dynamics and (magneto)hydrodynamics. Prerequisite: consent of instructor. No S/U grading. Same as ASTR 506 with less advanced work.

ASTR 435. Observational Techniques I 3 cr.
Up-to-date introduction to modern observational astronomy. Includes computers, data analysis, optical telescopes, optical and infrared photometry, image processing, and detection. Prerequisite: consent of instructor. No S/U grading. Same as ASTR 535 with less advanced work.

ASTR 461. Astronomy for Teachers 3 cr.
Methods of presentation and illustration of concepts of astronomy. Identification of interesting celestial objects. Adjustment and use of small telescopes. Prerequisite: ASTR 110G.