ASTR& 100: Survey of Astronomy

Upon successful completion of the course, students should be able to demonstrate the following knowledge or skills:

1. Discuss some of the history of astronomy
2. Identify major seasonal constellations and some of the brighter stars in the night sky.
3. Identify lunar phases and, given a lunar phase, predict rising and setting times.
4. Describe conditions necessary for solar and lunar eclipses.
5. Demonstrate knowledge of the solar system, stellar evolution, galaxies, quasars, and black holes.
6. Describe the role of gravity in various astronomical processes.
7. Describe how astronomers employ electromagnetic radiation to learn about astronomical objects.
8. Perform simple algebra and calculations involving relations used in astronomy such as Wien’s Displacement Law, Kepler’s Third Law, and other relations used in introductory astronomy.
9. Discuss qualitatively current theories of cosmology.
10. Demonstrate knowledge of telescope powers (resolving power, light-gathering power, and magnification) to compare telescopes of different apertures and designs.