PHYS 386 - Observational Astronomy

Common Course
This course is designed to help students expand their knowledge of astronomy through interactive seminars and observing sessions. The focus of this course will be on: 1) developing a more comprehensive background in stellar and galactic astronomy as well as solar system structure, and 2) developing observational and data collection skills using state of the art telescopes. Background knowledge in the above mentioned subjects will be fostered through instructor- supervised seminars led by the students. Students will use current web-based and advanced amateur/ professional publications to lead the seminar sessions. Current theories on the formation of the solar system, stars, galaxies, and the universe will also be covered. Advanced observing sessions will be held off-campus at the Badlands Observatory in Quinn, SD. Observing sessions will incorporate advanced 18 inch and 26 inch telescopes provided by the instructors also with CCD images cameras and software for data collection and image manipulation. Observing sessions will involve students in ongoing searches for near-earth asteroids.
PreRequisite: PHYS 183
CoRequisite: PHYS 386L
2 semester hours