FALL 2001
This information effective for Fall 2001.
Check with instructor the first day of class for any changes.
TTh 10:00 - 11:45 AM, Thimann 3
Instructor: S. Vogt
Office: Kerr Hall Room 129
Phone: 459-2151, e-mail: vogt@ucolick.org
Astronomy 2 is a one-quarter introductory course designed for non-science majors and offers a broad overview of modern astronomy. The course will review many of the fundamental concepts of the astronomical universe, with an emphasis on how we came to know them. Since the universe is big, and the quarter is short, we can't cover everything. We will start with an overview of important historical developments and build up an understanding of basic physical principles (gravity, light, atoms), then move outward to stars, extragalactic astronomy, and cosmology (origin and evolution of the universe). There will be very little coverage of the solar system.
Some elementary algebra will be used in the homework problems. In addition to the formal course lectures, a number of star-gazing sessions will be offered (as weather permits) to learn the constellations, the motions of the moon, planets, and stars through the heavens, and to observe with binoculars and small telescopes. A field trip to Lick Observatory to view selected objects through our 36" refracting telescope will also be arranged.
Discussion Sections - will be held once a week and are a very important part of the course as they allow further discussion and explanation of concepts presented in the lectures, in a smaller and more informal setting. Homework problem solutions will also be discussed in these sections.
Homework - will be assigned regularly in the lectures. A problem set will be distributed in class each Tuesday and due in class the following Tuesday. The weekly assignments will consist of 5 problems/week at 10 points/problem and will count in total for 20% of the final course grade. These assignments, while not mandatory, offer excellent practice and preparation for the midterm and final.
Exams - There will be a midterm and a final exam. I am more interested that you learn concepts rather than memorizing numbers, formulas, and taxonomy. Therefore, both exams will be open book/open notes. The midterm and final will each count 40% toward the final course grade.
Lick Observatory Field Trip - A trip to Lick observatory to view a few selected objects through one of our moderate-sized telescopes will be arranged.