ASTR 1010 - Solar System Astronomy

4 sem hrs cr

This survey course covers the history of astronomy; methods of astronomy; the formation of the solar system; the orbital, rotational, and physical characteristics of the planets, moons, asteroids, meteoroids, and comets; and the structure, characteristics, and scale of the Sun, stars, and galaxies.  Students will identify, locate, and specify locations of the visible planets, some constellations, and other astronomical objects visible in the night sky during the course.  Laboratory topics will include sky observations and constellation studies.  Prerequisite: Exemption from or completion of Learning Support competency courses.  (Completion of Math 1010 or higher is recommended, as some concepts of astronomy and some laboratory exercises require the ability to understand and perform some basic algebraic manipulations.)

In rare and unusual circumstances, a course prerequisite can be overridden with the permission of the Department Lead for the discipline.

Formerly/Same As ASTR 1030

Transfer (UT) or Non-Transfer Course (UN): UT

At the completion of this course, students will be able to…

• obtain a broad overview of the solar system.
• gain a working knowledge of gravity.
• gain an understanding of light and telescopes.
• obtain an overview of the lifetime of a star.
• learn the fundamentals of the planets in our solar system and beyond.