Course Overview
We will start the class by looking at how the sun, stars, moon, and planets appear to us in the sky. We will then embark upon a cosmic tour, starting in our own backyard (the solar system) and finishing at the edge of the universe (remember to bring snacks). By the end of the course you will have a sufficient grasp of astronomy that you will be able to understand articles in astronomy magazines (such as Sky and Telescope) and the popular press.
Prerequisite(s)
- No prerequisites are required for this course.
Credits
3.0
- Not offered this term
- This course is not offered this term. Notify me to receive email notifications when the course opens for registration next term.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- Describe how the apparent motions of the moon, sun and planets on the celestial sphere are caused by the orbits and rotations of these bodies.
- Identify, in a historical context, the conceptual advances behind the heliocentric model of the solar system.
- Describe the Earth and Moon in an astronomical context and understand how they interact.
- Name and describe the contents of the Solar System.
- Describe the structure of the Sun and understand its energy-production mechanism.
- Describe the evolution of stars, from birth to death.
- Discuss the nature and evolution of galaxies.
- Discuss the "Big Bang" model and understand its successes and limitations.
- Discuss the recent discovery of extra-solar planets in the context of the search for extra-terrestrial life.
- Discuss media reports on new astronomical discoveries.
Effective as of Fall 2018
Programs and courses are subject to change without notice. Find out more about BCIT course cancellations.