Fundamentals of Planetary Science and Astronomy

Catalog description

Overview of the techniques used and results from studies of the Solar System, stars, and galaxies. ASTRO 401 Fundamentals of Planetary Science and Astronomy (3) This course will focus in core content areas in planetary science and astronomy. Students will explore the fundamentals in robotic exploration of the Solar System, how astronomers map and navigate the night sky, our understanding of the nature and evolution of stars, and the nature and evolution of galaxies. Students will engage with real data from Solar System missions as well as ground-based and space-based telescopes. Through the use of many databases and data archives from missions and observatories, the students will become familiar with the census of astronomical objects in various categories. A particular emphasis will be placed on examples of qualitative and quantitative problem solving in these content areas. In addition, students will explore how scientists communicate their results to the public, and they will get hands-on experience, such as planning and executing a planetarium show.