"Astronomy is a scientific discipline in which we collect, correlate, and interpret data pertinent to our entire observable universe. Astronomy applies and extrapolates laboratory physics to astronomical phenomena."

1. The Earth-Moon System
2. Overview of our Solar System
3. Terrestrial and Jovian Planets
4. Asteroids, Meteoroids and Comets

• To appreciate the methodology used for space explorations;
• To interpret the observations from recent space explorations;
• To appreciate how space explorations can help us to understand the structure and evolution of our solar system;
Intensive reading of textbook materials is required !

1. Historical Development of Astronomy
2. Earth Centered Universe
a. Aspects of Celestial Sphere
b. Celestial Motion
c. Star Charts
d. Planetarium
3. Sun Centered Universe and Modern Astronomy

• To develop a scientific method to describe the celestial sky;
• To understand the basic principle in explaining the celestial motion;
• To develop useful tools and knowledge for real life star gazing activities;
The materials are strongly depending on each other and it is important for you to understand (not memorize) the concepts. You will easily be lost if you miss any class during these few weeks !

1. Tools of Astronomers
2. The Message of Starlight
3. Measuring Intrinsic Properties of Stars
4. Survey of Stars : H-R Diagram
5. Formation, Lives and Deaths of Stars

• To study various physical principles that will help us in understanding and measuring the basic properties of stars;
• Based on the observations and the concepts learned before, to put together the most educated speculation on how do stars evolve;

 
Memorizing the concepts is important but not enough ! Understanding and integrating the information together is required !

1. Interstellar Medium and the Milky Way Galaxy
2. Other Galaxies
3. The Structure of the Universe (Cosmology)

• To interpret observations related to our own galaxy and other distant galaxies
• Based on the observations and the concepts learned before, to put together the most educated speculation on how does the universe evolve;
Intensive reading of textbook materials is required !

• January 22   Last day to withdraw with 100% refund
• January 29   Last day to withdraw with 75% refund
• February 5   Last day to withdraw with 50% refund
• March 20   Last day to withdraw with a "W" grade