Course Information
Course Number: PHYS1117
Course Title: Introduction to Astronomy
Course Description:
Astronomical history is presented including an introduction to the mechanics and optics of Galileo and Newton. Radiation laws and astronomical tools including the telescope are considered. The solar system is presented in detail as is a history of human space travel.
Stellar astrophysics is considered including star formation, planetary systems formation; and star properties, groupings and evolution. Galaxy properties and evolution are discussed. Following an introduction to relativity, aspects of quantum mechanics and cosmology are introduced. The search for and consequences of extraterrestrial life are considered. Laboratory experiments supplement and illustrate lecture material.
Credits / Hours: 3/5
Pre/Co-requisites: MAT 1175
Technology Requirements
Before entering the course, students should be familiar with the use of a scientific calculator. During the course students will learn to use MSWord (equation editor, tables and inserting figures) and MSExcel (spreadsheet calculations and graphing).
Grading Policy
Quizes 10%
Midterm Exam 15%
Final Exam 25%
Final Project 25%
Lab Grade 25% Class Etiquette & Netiquette
Add expectations for class etiquette and netiquette.
Attendance/Participation
Add attendance/participation policy.
Academic Integrity Policy
Students and all others who work with information, ideas, texts, images, music, inventions and other intellectual property owe their audience and sources accuracy and honesty in using, crediting and citation of sources. As a community of intellectual and professional workers, the college recognizes its responsibility for providing instruction in information literacy and academic integrity, offering models of good practice, and responding vigilantly and appropriately to infractions of academic integrity. Accordingly, academic dishonesty is prohibited in The City University of New York and is punishable by penalties, including failing grades, suspension and expulsion. More information about the College’s policy on Academic Integrity may be found in the College Catalog.
Course Resources
- Astronomy, Fraknoi, Morisson & Wolff, 2016. ISBN-13: 978-1-938168-28-4.
