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Academic Year 2001/2002

Fundamentals of Observational and Stellar Astronomy
ASTR 211 FA

This course introduces the methods of observational astronomy as applied to the study of stars. The student will become familiar with the use of telescopes and instruments of Van Vleck Observatory, as well as acquiring basic knowledge about the sky. Acquisition and interpretation of basic stellar data will be stressed, along with techniques used to derive fundamental properties such as masses, luminosities, temperatures, and sizes of stars. Topics covered will include celestial coordinates and spherical trigonometry, time, catalogs and atlases, basic stellar data, telescopes and optics, photometry, spectral classification, binary stars, and variable stars. The course will attempt to stress the application of techniques learned in lecture throu gh several observing exercises.

MAJOR READINGS

One textbook, several technical manuals.

EXAMINATIONS AND ASSIGNMENTS

Two exams (midterm, final), weekly observing exercises or problem sets.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS and/or COMMENTS

This course is one of two gateway courses for the Astronomy major (with ASTR155). It can also be taken as a "Focused Inquiry" course by interested non-majors. ASTR155 is not a required prerequisite for ASTR211. However, some prior knowledge of basic astronomy is required, roughly at the level of descriptive non-majors courses such as ASTR107 (The Universe) or ASTR105 (Descriptive Astronomy). Consult with the instructor if you are uncertain whether you have the necessary background.

Unless preregistered students attend the first class meeting or communicate directly with the instructor prior to the first class, they will be dropped from the class list. NOTE: Students must still submit a completed Drop/Add form to the Registrar's Office.

COURSE FORMAT: Lecture

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Level: UGRD    Credit: 1    Gen Ed Area Dept: NSM ASTR    Grading Mode: Graded   

Prerequisites: NONE Links to Web Resources For This Course.

Last Updated on MAR-19-2002

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