The Solar System and Beyond , by Michael Seeds. Used to accompany and expand on lecture material. This textbook has its own web site - be sure to visit it for assorted web links and sample exercises. After the background material has been covered, chapters will be assigned as necessary for coverage of the material at hand. A survey of fundamental concepts in astronomy, with particular attention being paid to topics of current interest and the methods by which the astronomical science is done.
Astronomy is an evolving science.
New discoveries and theories are presented to the public regularly. The course will take advantage of this dyamic atmosphere by using the internet and various assignements to show how science is done and to explore the treatment of science stories in various media. Several news links are given on the course main page to help keep students abreast of new developments. Throughout the ages, we have struggled to define our place in the cosmos. This course offers an overview of where this struggle has brought us.