Instruction offered by members of the Department of Physics and Astronomy in the Faculty of Science.
Department Head – R.I. Thompson
Note: For listings of related courses, see Astrophysics, Physics, Medical Physics, and Space Physics.
Junior Courses
Astronomy 207
Introduction to Astronomy I - The Solar System
A comprehensive, descriptive overview of the solar system covering how ideas have changed from ancient times to today. The latest discoveries. The electromagnetic spectrum; telescopes and detectors; laws of planetary motion; planets, asteroids, comets, and the Sun. Formation of the solar system. Extra-solar planets and the possibility of extraterrestrial life. Possible field trip to the Rothney Astrophysical Observatory. Course Hours:3 units; H(3-0) Antirequisite(s):Not open to students with credit in Astronomy 205, 213 or Astrophysics 213. Notes:Not recommended for physical science majors.
A comprehensive, descriptive overview of the universe outside the solar system. The electromagnetic spectrum; stellar spectra; distance determinations. Origin and evolution of stars; white dwarfs, neutron stars and black holes. The interstellar medium. Dark matter. Galaxies and quasars. The Big Bang. The fate of the universe. Possible field trip to the Rothney Astrophysical Observatory. Course Hours:3 units; H(3-0) Antirequisite(s):Not open to students with credit in Astronomy 205, 213 or Astrophysics 213. Notes:Not recommended for physical science majors.
