OBJECTIVES and
TEXTBOOK:
OBJECTIVES:
This introduction to astronomy will show how the basic laws of
nature allow us to understand the universe, from its large scale
structure to the fundamental properties of matter, space and
time. By application of physics to explain and model the most
recent astronomical discoveries, we will lay a foundation that
will enable you to understand future developments in astronomy,
how modern scientific research is carried out and how basic
sciences impact our everyday lives.
TEXTBOOK:
The text is The Cosmos,
by Pasachoff & Filippenko, published by Cambridge University
Press, (student edition, 5th edition, c. 2019). ISBN-13 :
978-1108431385
A companion site with resources (flash cards, chapter updates
etc.) is linked
here.
Errata (PDF file) to the textbook are linked
here.
EXPECTATIONS:
Math is an essential part of astronomy, just as reading and
writing are for history.
A working knowledge of high school mathematics (not calculus) is
assumed:
algebra, exponents/logs, geometry/trigonometry etc. You need
to be able to work with those functions
on your non-communicating calculator. All formulae will be
provided on quizzes and tests, except for a few to be
memorized.
Math help is available at the Math Resource Ctr, Strickler Hall
226 East Wing (x7434), or online
***As usual with college courses, you are expected to spend 2-3
hours reading, doing homework, studying,
doing pre-tests, working with AceAstronomy etc. for each credit
hour of the class. It's a 3 hour course,
so that means 6-9 hours outside work per week ON AVERAGE. Some
people need more, some less. If you need help,
please come to the instructor, grader, tutors, your fellow
classmates, the Physics Learning Center and/or the Reach Center.
We're all here to help. But, you need to take initiative to seek
help if you need it.***