PHYS-1403 Stars and Galaxies

This course is designed to give an overview of the visible universe. The objective throughout this course is to explain how astronomers know the many curious things they have learned about our universe. It brings the universe alive; in a sense; by showing the drama of the birth; evolution; and death of stars. What is the universe? Did the universe have a beginning? Will the universe last forever? These cosmological questions are answered in a qualitative way. The chances of life elsewhere in the universe; and how we might know about it are discussed. Planetarium and Observatory are used extensively. Methods of instruction include practical laboratory experiments; application of modern technology; and guided discussions. The course is structured around the lecture-lab format (i.e. depending on the topic; it may be necessary to do a hands-on activity before lecturing on a concept).

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