Observational Astronomy

PREREQUISITE: MAP-UA 202 OR ABOVE, PHYS-UA7 OR ABOVE, OR PERMISSION OF THE INSTRUCTOR FOR NON-SCIENCE MAJORS AND MINORS; NO PREREQUISITE REQUIED FOR SCIENCE MAJORS AND MINORS OR THOSE AUTOMATICALLY SATISFYING NSI REQUIREMENTS.

Prerequisite: The Universe: Its Nature and History (PHYS-UA 7) or higher, or permission of the instructor for non-science majors and minors; no prerequisite for science majors and minors or those who have satisfied the Core Physical Science requirement. NOTE: Course enrollment is limited to Astronomy Minors during the first week of registration in Albert, after which the enrollment restriction is lifted.

Introduction to the theory and practice of technical amateur astronomy. The approach is hands-on, with weekly evening laboratory/observing sessions. Topics include astronomical coordinate systems, optics, how to use a telescope, and the phenomena that can be seen in the urban night sky. Observing sessions involve the use of eight-inch telescopes.