Course Description
Stellar evolution through study of white dwarves and black holes; galaxy structure and cosmology. Observational project will use Three College Observatory. Intended as follow-up to introductory astronomy and physics. Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in PHY 321, PHY 323, PHY 325, PHY 327, and PHY 351; or permission of instructor.
Syllabus
Student Learning Outcomes, Goals, Objectives:
Students successfully completing this course will be able to:
Apply analysis to understand data.
Construct and interpret data tables, charts, graphs, or other representations of data.
Analyze and interpret data to evaluate and test hypotheses.
Objectives:
When the course is finished the student should have gained familiarity with:
topics of radiation physics, stellar evolution, and structure of our Galaxy and other galaxies
a professional telescope as well as obtaining and analyzing data taken with it and with other telescopes
astronomical literature, including the world highest-rated periodicals, such as The Astrophysical Journal
and competence with one chosen research topic as reported in the literature
Course Grading Information:
Activity/Performance Measure | Percentage/Points |
|---|---|
problem assignments | 35% |
2 mid-term exams | 20% |
project (oral & written reports) | 20% |
cumulative final exam | 25% |
Percentage | Letter Grade |
|---|---|
92.1% - 100% | A |
89.1% - 92% | A- |
86.1% - 89% | B+ |
82.1% - 86% | B |
79.1% - 82% | B- |
76.1% - 79% | C+ |
72.1% - 76% | C |
69.1% - 72% | C- |
66.1% - 69% | D+ |
63.1% - 66% | D |
60.1% - 63% | D- |
< 60% | F |
Attendance/Participation:
Attendance is required at all class meetings and observing sessions.
Course Materials Purchased by the Students:
No course materials are required.
Scholarly Perspectives
This course engages diverse scholarly perspectives to develop critical thinking, analysis, and debate and inclusion of a reading does not imply endorsement.