ASTR 104(S) The Milky Way Galaxy and the Universe Beyond (Offered 1998-99; not to be offered 1999-2000)

It has been only 80 years since the sun was discovered not to be at the center of the Milky Way Galaxy, and only 70 years since our Milky Way Galaxy was determined to be only one of countless "island universes" in space. This final decade of the millennium is bringing a host of technological advances that are enabling us to understand ever more clearly our place in the universe and how the universe began. For example, the Hubble Space Telescope brings clearer images of celestial objects than have ever been obtainable before, and is allowing progress on determining the past and future of the universe. In addition, the Cosmic Background Explorer spacecraft's study of the early universe is giving clues into how its currently observed structure arose, and confirming and enlarging our understanding of the Big Bang. Astronomy 104, a non-major, general introduction to part of contemporary astronomy comprising the study of galaxies and the universe, will explore the answers to questions like: What is "The Milky Way"?; Why are quasars so luminous?; Is the universe made largely of "dark matter"?; What determines the ultimate fate of the universe? This course is independent of, and on the same level as Astronomy 101 and 102. Observing sessions will include use of the 24" telescope and other telescopes for observations of stars, star clusters, planets and their moons, nebulae, and galaxies, as well as daytime observations of the sun. In labs, students will be able to explore concepts discussed in class; students will also have the opportunity to use the Department's multimedia facilities to learn more about the astronomical objects they study and observe and to explore astronomy on the World Wide Web. Lectures, three hours a week, observing sessions, and labs. Evaluation will be based on two hour tests, a final exam, an observing portfolio, and laboratory reports. Non-major course. No prerequisites.

Hour: PASACHOFF