Class Syllabus: Astronomy 101
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Course Meeting Times: |
Online, Participate in the Class Forums
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Course Description
The universe is comprised of infinite space both on Earth and beyond.
It is quite illuminating to discover the expansiveness that can be found by studying the night skies and not only learning about the array of celestial objects that exist but also understanding the reasons behind certain formations and intergalactic activities.
In this course we're going to explore our night sky, constellations, our solar system, our galaxy, and what lies beyond the far reaches of space. In addition, we'll learn about past and current projects for space exploration, as well as future ideas for space travel.
Our journey will also take us to black holes, quasars, supernovaes, brown dwarfs, and the string theory. And lastly, we'll explore in depth how we make observations from earth, and touch on the mechanics of optical telescopes that aid us in exploring the night sky. Course Requirements
You only need a web browser, an Internet connection, and an open mind. All other materials are provided within the course. Course Outline
I. COSMIC VIEW
- Welcome to the Night Skies
- Star Variances
- Hertzsprung-Russell Diagram
- The Moon
- Constellations, an Overview
- Right Ascension and Declination
- Fall Winter Constellations
- Spring Constellations
- Debunking the Myths
II. EXPLORING THE SOLAR SYSTEM
- Astronomy: History
- Solar System: Formation
- Earth and Moon
- Planets and Moon
- Planetary Positions
III.SPACE EXPLORATION: The Final Frontier
- Space Exploration: History
- Space Exploration: Accomplishments and Status
- Space Exploration: Political Update
- Space Exploration: Future Plans
- NASAs New Horizon Mission to Pluto
- Space Travel Industry
- Increased Media
- Redefining the Term Planet
IV. EXPLORING BEYOND THE SOLAR SYSTEM
- Astronomy versus Cosmology
- Composition of the Universe
- Black Holes
- Quasars
- Supernovae
- Brown Dwarfs
- String Theory
V. EXPLORING BEYOND THE SOLAR SYSTEM
- All-Sky Map
- Planispheres
- Telescopes
- Mounts
- Binoculars
- Astronomical Almanac
- Astronomical Compass
- Flashlight
- General Star Gazing Guidelines
- Star-Crossed Community: Clubs, Organizations and Planetariums
Grading Policy
Each lesson is followed by an end-of-lesson multiple choice and T/F Quiz (each worth around 20-25 pts.) Some of the lessons will also be followed by an assignment based on lesson facts and opinions expressed.
70% or higher will be required in order to complete this course. Recommended Books
Although there are no Required books or materials for this online course, there are a couple of Recommended books for further study.
1. Astronomy: A Self-Teaching Guide Booklink to: Astronomy: A Self-Teaching Guide 
2. NightWatch: A Practical Guide to Viewing the Universe (Spiral-bound) Booklink to: NightWatch: A Practical Guide to Viewing the Universe Learning Outcomes By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
- Identify and describe the major and minor constellations.
- Identify and describe our solar system.
- Describe and differentiate the planets and moons of our solar system
- Describe both the history and future plans of space exploration.
- Describe Black Holes, Quasars, Supernovae, Brown Dwarfs, String Theory.
- Demonstrate basic functions of using a telescope, and
- Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
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