Astronomy 250

ASTR 250 is a calculus-based introductory course in astronomy and astrophysics, aimed at sophomore astronomy majors and science majors from other departments. Topics include: Basic spherical trigonometry and observational astronomy, our Solar System and Kepler’s Laws, exoplanets, virial theorem, stellar evolution and nucleosynthesis, galaxy structure and evolution, dark matter and dark energy, the Big Bang, and the structure and evolution of the universe. Long term benefits also include mastery of techniques for analyzing questions, formulating logical solutions, physical intuition, the scientific method, written communication, and the use of numerical techniques, both mental and electronic.

Prerequistes: PHYS 141 (or 161H); Calculus I [MATH 122B or 125]; and Calculus II [MATH 129]