ASTR 1115 - Introduction to Astronomy

(3 CR, 3T + 0L)

This course surveys observations, theories, and methods of modern astronomy. The course is predominantly for non-science majors, aiming to provide a conceptual understanding of the universe and the basic physics that governs it. Due to the broad coverage of this course, the specific topics and concepts treated may vary. Commonly presented subjects include the general movements of the sky and history of astronomy, followed by an introduction to basic physics concepts like Newton’s and Kepler’s laws of motion. The course may also provide modern details and facts about celestial bodies in our solar system, as well as the differentiation of comets, Kuiper Belt, and Trans-Neptunian Objects. Beyond this, we may study stars and galaxies, star clusters,nebulae, black holes, clusters of galaxies, and dark matter. Finally, we may study cosmology - the structure and history of the universe.

Prerequisite(s): ENGL 109N and MATH 100N.
Corequisite(s): ASTR 1115L.