Fall 2003

This information effective for Fall 2003. Check with instructor the first day of class for any changes.

Astronomy

[ASTR-002]

2. Overview of the Universe

MWF 9:30–10:40 a.m., Thimann 3
Instructor: S. Vogt
Office: ISB Room 343; phone: 459-2151
e-mail: vogt@ucolick.org

Course Description:

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 moving 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 Monday and due in class the following Monday. The weekly assignments will consist of 5 problems/week at 10 points/problem and will count in total for 30% of the final course grade.

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 35% 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.