Honors Stars and Galaxies

Catalog description

This honors course, intended for students in the Honors Transfer Program, is an introduction to the universe and its history. The main focus is on our view of the heavens and how astronomers learn about stars and galaxies. The formation, life histories, and fates of different kinds of stars, including the sun, are examined. Exotic stars as well as black holes are explored. The structure and distribution of galaxies are discussed, with a focus on our own Milky Way Galaxy. The possibility of simple and intelligent life in the Milky Way Galaxy will be examined. The history of the universe, starting with the Big Bang is also investigated. This course is enriched through extensive rigorous reading, writing, and research assignments. Note: Students may take either Astronomy 25 or Astronomy 25H. Duplicate credit will not be awarded for Astronomy 25 and Astronomy 25H.