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I. Course Title: General Astronomy

II. Course Number: ASTR 120

III. Credit Hours: 3 credits

IV. Prerequisites: None

V. Course Description: 

This course is an introduction to the fundamental methods used in astronomy to investigate the cosmos. Lectures provide a general overview of the major disciplines found in astronomy and explore the ongoing developments in the field.

Note(s): If students have already received credit in ASTR 111, ASTR 112, or ASTR 220 they may not receive credit for ASTR 120.

VI. Detailed Description of Content of the Course:

â–ª The Daily and Annular Motion of Celestial Bodies in the Sky

▪ Kepler’s Laws of Planetary Motion

▪ Newton’s Law of Gravity

â–ª Properties of Light

• i. Wave and Particle Characteristic of Light
• ii. Spectral Line formation
• iii. Doppler Effect
• iv. Blackbodies

â–ª Telescope Optics (Optional)

â–ª Formation and Classification of the Solar System

â–ª Exoplanet Detection (Optional)

â–ª Stellar Evolution

â–ª Formation and Classification of Galaxies 

â–ª Cosmic Distance Ladder

▪ Hubble’s Law and Expansion of the Universe

â–ª Cosmic Microwave Background

â–ª Astrobiology (Optional)

â–ª Optional topics may be included at the discretion of the instructor.

VI. Detailed Description of Conduct of Course:

This course will deliver content mainly by lecture and does not contain a lab component. Time in class will be set aside for students to practice solving problems and working through worksheets that test for conceptual understanding of the course material. 

VII. Goals and Objectives of the Course:

1. Students will be able to identify similarities and differences between the empirical nature of science and the traditional scientific method using specific examples from astronomical discoveries.
2. Students will be able to connect basic principles of physics on Earth to astronomical objects and phenomena.
3. Students will be able to interpret astronomical problems presented in mathematical terms.
4. Students will understand the relationships between science, technology, and society, especially in the context of continued astronomical discoveries far beyond our planet.

VIII. Assessment Measures:

Student’s learning will be formally assessed with the use of quizzes, homework, mid-term exams, and a final exam. Worksheets and class discussions will be employed as in-class activities to promote active learning in the classroom and to assess student’s progress informally.

Other Course Information: None.

Review and Approval

March 01, 2021