Course Descriptions 2023-2024 School Year ASTRONOMY AST1002  Introduction to Astronomy  3.0   P This introductory course is an exploration of our universe through descriptive studies of our solar system, stars, constellations, black holes, galaxies, quasars, and cosmology. Other topics included are artificial satellites, the space program, energy problems, and the search for extraterrestrial life. Emphasis is placed on scientific reasoning and precision, and on the importance of astronomy as an integral part of the everyday life of the individual. The course earns General Education credit under the Physical Sciences category for which successful students will demonstrate the skills necessary to understand and apply scientific concepts and reasoning, including analysis and interpretation of various types of data.... Full Description AST1002L  Introduction to Astronomy Lab  1.0   P An exploration of our universe through exercises involving observations of celestial objects and analysis of observational data. Telescopes, binoculars, and the naked eye are used to observe the sun, the moon, planets, constellations, stars, star clusters, nebulae, and galaxies. The course earns General Education credit under the Physical Sciences category for which successful students will demonstrate the skills necessary to understand and apply scientific concepts and reasoning, including analysis and interpretation of various types of data.... Full Description AST2003  Introduction to the Solar System  3.0   P This course is an exploration of our Solar System through descriptive studies of astronomy and geology. This course is designed to meet the needs of students interested in a career focusing on astronomy, astrophysics, and aeronautical sciences/engineering. Course content includes a study of celestial mechanics, the history and operation of the space program, and the search for extraterrestrial life. Emphasis is placed on scientific reasoning and precision as well as on the importance of astronomy and planetary science as an integral part of the everyday life of the individual.... Full Description