This course provides an introduction to basic astronomy. Topics include the Earth and other planets and objects (comets and asteroids) in our solar system, the Sun and other stars, the lifecycle (birth, life and death) of stars, galaxies and constellations, pulsars and black holes, and some cosmology. Some history is included and the historical and cultural context of astronomical discoveries is briefly covered. Importantly, we will discuss the nature of science and some basic physics as needed to understand how we know what we know of this amazing universe.
An accompanying laboratory is used for demonstrations, experiments, and activities. There will be a couple of opportunities during the term for some outdoor observation using department telescopes mounted on the roof of beautiful Weniger Hall.