PHYS-1404 Solar System

This course is an introduction to Astronomy. The approach is very qualitative, but simple mathematics skills are required. The course is designed to explain the origin of the Solar System including the Sun and its nine planets, and smaller bodies - satellites (moon) orbiting the planets, asteroids, and comets. The students are also exposed to the basic idea of the function of a telescope. Planetarium and Observatory are used extensively. Methods of instruction include practical laboratory experiments, application of modern technology, and guided discussions. This 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 the concepts). The class meets twice a week, three hours per day.

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