ASTR 334 The Universe Explored with the Hubble Space Telescope (Not offered 1998-99)

The Hubble Space Telescope, with its ability to image astronomical objects 10 times more clearly than with ground-based telescopes, is revolutionizing all aspects of astronomy. Its additional ability to see objects fainter than ever before possible, added to its high resolution, is enabling astronomers to observe the Universe in its earliest stages, over 10 billion years ago. We will consider the contributions of the Hubble Space Telescope to understanding objects ranging from the nearest-such as planets and comets in our solar system-to stars to galaxies and to quasars and other exotica in the distant past. We will consider the flow of new information about the Universe, and how the Next Generation Space Telescope planned in the next decade may be useful in the detection of planets around other stars. Evaluation will be based on a first paper, an hour exam, and a final paper. No prerequisites. Courses in the 330-sequence are meant as general-education courses for students of all majors. Not open to first-year students and sophomores. Non-major course. Closed to Astronomy, Astrophysics, and Physics majors.

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