PHYS 1022 - Descriptive Astronomy
3 Credits
Surveys the major areas of astronomy including planets, the Sun, the Moon, stars, galaxies, cosmology, and the possibility of extraterrestrial life. Course includes lab-like learning activities. Note that this course by itself will not meet the lab science requirement. Students are encouraged to register for PHYS 1023 - Descriptive Astronomy Lab to fulfill a lab science requirement.
Major Content Areas
The sky, constellations, and maps of the sky.
Motions of the Earth and Moon.
Planetary motion and the laws of motion.
Light, telescopes, spectra, and gravitational waves.
The solar system, inner planets, outer planets, the Sun, asteroids, meteors, and comets.
Stars and stellar evolution.
Galaxies and cosmology.
Life on Earth and the possibility of life outside of the Earth.
Learning Outcomes
Apply astronomy concepts using modern terminology.
Explain how astronomers utilize the electromagnetic spectrum, particles, and gravitational waves to ascertain astronomical properties of objects through telescopes and other means.
Explain the characteristics, motions, and evolution of the Sun, planets, and other objects in the solar system, galaxies, and the universe.
Explain the necessary conditions for life on Earth, and conjecture on the possibility of life outside of the Earth.
Minnesota Transfer Curriculum (MNTC) Goals
02 - Critical Thinking
03 - Natural Science
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