This introductory course covers the development of astronomy, celestial mechanics, electromagnetic radiation, telescopes and astronomical instruments, the planets, and smaller solar system objects. The course includes three lectures each week conducted by a professor. The lab and tutorial work is directed by TAs. The course includes one evening lab session per week. The lab is a highly innovative one utilizing digital cameras on telescopes on the roof of the building and analysis with a dedicated computer network.
Students take and analyze their own astronomical observations.
Typically, three midterms and one final exam are given each semester. The instructor is Gurnett. Selected readings with topics arranged by students with individual instructors. Selected readings with topics arranged by students with individual instructors. The seminar includes a supervised original research project leading to a written report and oral defense.