WNC Catalog 2008-2009: Astronomy
Course Descriptions |
AstronomyAstronomy is the science of celestial objects, such as stars, planets, comets, and galaxies, and phenomena that originate outside the earth's atmosphere, such as auroras and cosmic background radiation. It is concerned with the evolution, physics, chemistry, meteorology, and motion of celestial objects, as well as the formation and development of the universe. Courses in Astronomy as listed in the 2008-2009 WNC catalog. Back to the Astronomy main page. | Courses |
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| AST |
100 |
Special Topics: White Dwarfs, Neutron Stars and Black Holes |
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Credits: 1. Prerequisites: none
Covers an assortment of exotic and fascinating stellar and astronomical objects that are at the center of modern astronomy. Studies the life cycles of both large and small mass stars as well as new developments and discoveries from a wide range of topics in astrophysics. |
| AST |
105 |
Introductory Astronomy Laboratory |
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Credits: 1. Prerequisites: AST 109 or AST 110 or consent of instructor
Presents laboratory exercises in astronomy in the tradition of the amateur astronomer. Includes observation of celestial objects as well as laboratory exercises to investigate the physical nature of astronomical objects. Instructs on the use of telescopes and the process of the scientific method. Recommended for non-science majors. |
| AST |
109 |
Planetary Astronomy |
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Credits: 3. Prerequisites: MATH 120 or MATH 126 or higher or consent of instructor
Offers a descriptive introduction to current concepts of the solar system, modern observational techniques, and their results. Utilizes telescopes and observatory facilities. Includes four laboratory experiences. |
| AST |
110 |
Stellar Astronomy |
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Credits: 3. Prerequisites: MATH 120 or MATH 126 or higher or consent of instructor
Offers a descriptive introduction to stellar and galactic systems, the life cycle of stars, theories of the universe and its formation. Utilizes telescopes and observatory facilities. Includes four laboratory experiences. |
| AST |
120 |
Introduction to Astrobiology |
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Credits: 3. Prerequisites: none
Study of the origin, evolution and distribution of life in the geology, planetary science, atmospheric science, oceanography, and other sciences. Will explore the scientific reasons behind why the Solar System harbors a living planet. Covers the factors that allow the Earth to support life and the potential for life on other planets within the universe. |
| AST |
190 |
Projects in Observational Astronomy |
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Credits: 3. Prerequisites: AST 105 or consent of instructor
Develops skills in observational astronomy with a project-oriented course. Uses high quality equipment such as cameras, photometers, telescopes and heliostats. Laboratory course recommended for non-science majors. |
| AST |
198B |
Special Topics in Astronomy |
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Credits: 0.5–6. Prerequisites: none
Includes short courses and experimental classes covering a variety of subjects. May be repeated for up to six credits. |
| AST |
290B |
Internship in Astronomy |
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Credits: 1–8. Prerequisites: consent of instructor
Allows students to apply knowledge to real, on-the-job situations in a program designed by a company official and faculty advisor to maximize learning experiences. Students may earn up to eight credits on the basis of 45 hours of internship per credit. |
| AST |
299B |
Directed Study |
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Credits: 1–3. Prerequisites: consent of instructor
Covers selected topics and directed student research of interest to students in astronomy. |
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