This course covers the learning outcomes and goals of understanding astronomy concepts such as the Sun-Earth-Moon system, planets in our solar system, formation of the solar system, stars, galaxies, and orbital motion. The course teaches skills in visualizing celestial bodies, measuring planetary masses, studying extrasolar planets, and observing stars and planets. The teaching method includes lectures, projects, simulations, and data processing exercises. The intended audience for this course is individuals interested in gaining a foundational knowledge of astronomy and celestial phenomena.
Overview
Syllabus
Astro Intro 1.
astro2 - Visualizing the Sun-Earth-Moon system + Study Guides.
Week 2, ESCI 207, Astronomy, Measuring Jupiter's Mass.
Update for the Jupiter Mass Project.
Project 3: Planets of our Solar System.
Astro Week 4: Formation of Solar System, HR Diagrams/Stars.
Astro Week 5: Extra Solar Planet Project + Life and Death of Stars.
Worked Example: Measuring an Extrasolar Planet.
Astronomy Week6 Overview: Galaxies!.
Force, Energy and Orbital Motion.
Where does v squared over r come from?.
Seasons Simulator Part B (seasons at different latitudes).
Seasons Simulator Part A (angles and coordinates).
ESCI 207 Online: Astronomy Preview HW 1.
Intro to Observing Stars, Planets, Moon!.
Astronomy: Origins of Moderns Astronomy (ch3 overview).
Facts of Light.
Observing Our Sun.
Basic properties of astronomical telescopes..
Small Angle Formula.
Measuring Jupiter Moon image.
Processing data from Jupiter's moons.
Taught by
Steve Spicklemire
