ASTR 101 - Solar System Astronomy

PREREQUISITES: MATH 023 - Essentials of Algebra or MATH 080 - Mathematical Principles with Algebra and demonstrated competency through appropriate assessment or earning a grade of “C” or better in ENGL 093 - Introduction to College Writing and ENGL 083 - Reading Strategies for College or ENGL 095 - Integrated Reading and Writing, or ENGL 075 - Co-Requisite Integrated Reading & Writing.
PROGRAM: Physical Sciences
CREDIT HOURS MIN: 3
LECTURE HOURS MIN: 2
LAB HOURS MIN: 2
DATE OF LAST REVISION: Spring, 2019

Survey of the history of astronomy, astronomical cycles and phenomena, astronomical instruments, formation and evolution of the planets and their satellites, comparative planetology, asteroids, comets, meteors, the sun, and the origin of the solar system. Includes lab.

MAJOR COURSE LEARNING OBJECTIVES: Upon successful completion of this course the student will be expected to:

Describe the general scale and distance units of the cosmos.
Describe the annual cycle of the sun, seasons, and cycles of the moon.
Provide examples of the historical development of modern astronomy from antiquity to the present.
Determine the functions and uses of astronomical instruments, including optical and radio telescopes and orbiting instruments.
Describe the origin of the solar system and the earth.
Compare and contrast the properties of the Terrestrial planets.
Compare and contrast the properties of the Jovian planets.
Summarize the origin of meteorites, asteroids and comets.
Describe the properties and composition of the sun as a star.
Compare and Contrast Extrasolar Planets and other Star Systems to the Solar System.
Locate reliable sources of scientific evidence to construct arguments related to real-world issues.
Explain how astronomical information is obtained from light spectra.

COURSE CONTENT: Topical areas of study include -