AST 101 University College - Our Corner of the Universe - Fall 2006

A  course for non-science majors interested in learning elements of astronomy

Welcome Visitor number  since August 22, 2006


Notice #1: Lecture summaries with reading and homework assignments are posted the day after the lecture
Notice #2: The 2nd midterm exams have been graded
Notice #3: The final exam is comprehensive and is on Wed. Dec. 13 6 pm, Stolkin Auditorium

Last modified: Dec. 4, 2006

The Syllabus

Timetable

Lectures

Labs

Links to interesting astronomy and astrophysics sites
 
 

 

About the Course

Topics
  • Naked-eye Astronomy
  • The Physics of Astronomy
  • Overview of the Solar System
  • The Origin of the Solar System
  • The Sun
  • The Terrestrial Planets
  • The Jupiter-like Planets
  • Asteroids and Comets
  • Elements of Astrobiology

The textbook is: The Essential Cosmic Perspective by Bennett/Donahue, Schneider/Voit, 3rd Edition, 2005, Addison Wesley, plus remote control “clicker”. This text is available at the Syracuse University Bookstore. The text comes with a software key to access on-line material, such as tutorials and useful links. Additional reading asssignments from other sources may be given as needs warrant.

Instructor: Prof. Gianfranco Vidali (gvidali@physics.syr.edu) (3-9115, Rm221 Physics Bldg.). Research interests: chemical and physical processes occurring in the Interstellar Medium. Visit the Astrophysics lab.

Meeting period (lecture and lab/recitation): Wednesdays 6 to 10 pm, Stolkin Auditorium, Physics Building.

Course Secretary: Ms. Arlene Johnston, Rm. 111, 443-1915, johnston@physics.syr.edu

Teaching Assistant: to be announced