A comprehensive introduction to the science of astronomy. The origins of the solar system and of modern astronomy are presented and examined. Supernovas, pulsars, quasars, black holes, and neutron stars are discussed. Consideration is given to the possibility of life on other worlds. This introductory astronomy course surveys the objects and processes in the universe.
Astronomy is arguably the oldest science.
There is no easier task than to look into the heavens and ponder the meaning of it all. The questions of astronomy are also some of the deepest, ultimately resting on the very origin of the universe itself. We can all easily sense this wonder, just by going to any dark location and spending an hour looking at the night sky. A glance at the night sky shows at first only a chaotic scattering of light. But a deeper and longer look reveals patterns both in motion and in location.