AST 131 - Solar System Astronomy

Credits: 4
Lecture Hours: 3
Lab Hours: 2
A survey of the solar system, including the earth-moon system, the planets and their satellites, asteroids, meteors, comets, and the nearest star, our sun. Study ranges from a historical view of the universe to our modern day view of the planetary system as provided by optical and radio telescopes, spectrographic study and space exploration. Among topics to be considered are the nature of light and telescopes, planetary surfaces and atmospheres, the origin of the solar system and extraterrestrial life. Laboratory work is supplemented by field trips and celestial observations with the unaided eye and telescopes.