PHYS102

An introduction to the astronomy of the stars and galaxies. Focuses on some foundational material which may include the celestial sphere, apparent motion of objects in the sky, angular and distance measurements, the electromagnetic spectrum, spectroscopy, and telescopes. Students also discuss the components of the universe including the Sun, solar dynamics, the structure and evolution of stars and galaxies; how black holes and quasars fit into current cosmological models; determination of the size and fate of the universe, and the probability of life as we know it outside of our Earth. May include quantitative reasoning and problem solving which requires the use of algebra. In addition, there may be an observational component using Drew's telescopes.