Astronomy (ASTR)
ASTR 106 Introduction to Astronomy/Lab (1 Credit)
How can we use light to learn about the universe? How can we measure the properties of planets, stars, and galaxies? How can we explore our cosmic origins and the history of the universe? This course provides an introduction to modern astronomy with an emphasis on how we know what we know.
Modes of Inquiry: [QF], [SR]
Writing Credit: None
GEC(s): GEC C036, GEC C091
Department/Program Attribute(s): None
Class Restriction: None
Cross-listed Course(s): None
Instructor: Aleks Diamond-Stanic
ASTR 202 Galaxies and Cosmology (1 Credit)
An introduction to the astrophysics of galaxies and cosmology with an emphasis on the physical principles required to understand and interpret astronomical observations. Building on a foundation of the introductory physics sequence, this course explores properties of the Milky Way Galaxy, galaxy formation and evolution, the interstellar and intergalactic medium, dark matter and dark energy, the expansion history of the universe, and modern cosmology. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 107 or 109 and 108 or s31.
Modes of Inquiry: [QF], [SR]
Writing Credit: None
GEC(s): None
Department/Program Attribute(s): None
Class Restriction: Not open to: First Year students
Cross-listed Course(s): None
Instructor: Aleks Diamond-Stanic
ASTR 217 Planetary Atmospheres (1 Credit)
What do we know about the history of the Earth’s atmosphere? How different is Earth’s atmosphere from the atmospheres of other planets? And how can we study the alien atmospheres of faraway exoplanets? This course explores the atmospheres of planets within our Solar System—from Earth to Venus and Mars, to more distant planets and moons such as Saturn’s moon Titan—and beyond, with an emphasis on the feedbacks and physics that have most influenced atmospheric formation and evolution. Topics include the history of the atmospheres of Earth and other planets; atmosphere stability; key concepts within atmospheric composition, feedbacks, and thermodynamics; the relationship between stars and the atmospheres of planets orbiting them; and methods used to detect and analyze exoplanet atmospheres. Recommended background: PHYS S31. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 109 or EACS 109.
Modes of Inquiry: [SR]
Writing Credit: None
GEC(s): None
Department/Program Attribute(s): None
Class Restriction: Not open to: First Year students
Cross-listed Course(s): None
Instructor: Becca Payne
ASTR S11 Modeling & Data Analysis in the Physical Sciences (0.5 Credits)
How are models used in the physical sciences? How are models informed by data in different disciplines, and how do we analyze it? This course will provide students with an opportunity to explore the many ways that models are used to conduct scientific research, and gain insights into how models can support their academic and career goals. We will discuss a variety of models, techniques, and tools used throughout the physical sciences, and guide students to use them for their own research project. Students will learn data fundamentals as well as specific applications of these data-driven techniques to fields within the physical sciences. Lessons will be taught through a lecture and lab component, going over the concepts before letting students work through coding projects, enabling them to create and conduct their own data-driven research. This course has no prerequisites, and aims to bring together students from a wide variety of academic disciplines and any level of coding experience.
Modes of Inquiry: [QF], [SR]
Writing Credit: None
GEC(s): None
Department/Program Attribute(s): None
Class Restriction: None
Instructor: Becca Payne