ASTR 1010 Solar System Astronomy

4 Credit Hour(s)

As an introduction to astronomy, this course explores what we know about the solar system and how we know what we know. The topics covered in this course include the history of astronomy, methods of astronomy, formation of the solar system, and physical characteristics of the sun, planets, moons, and minor members of the solar system (asteroids, meteoroids, and comets). Students will learn to identify, locate and specify location of visible planets, some constellations and any other “visitors” that appear in our solar system during the course.
Student Learning Outcomes:
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

Students will demonstrate the ability to conduct an experiment, collect and analyze data, and interpret results in a laboratory setting.
Students will demonstrate the ability to analyze, evaluate and test a scientific hypothesis.
Students will demonstrate the ability to use basic scientific language and processes, and be able to distinguish between scientific and non-scientific explanations.
Students will demonstrate the ability to identify unifying principles and repeatable patterns in nature, the values of natural diversity, and apply them to problems or issues of a scientific nature.
Students will demonstrate the ability to analyze and discuss the impact of scientific discovery on human thought and behavior.