Course Info

COURSE GOALS

This course will introduce you to what scientific questions underpin astronomy and what astronomers do to answer those questions. We'll begin with an introduction to the big overarching idea: How does the Universe work? I have some video presentations that do fun job of this and we'll follow up with in-class discussions. But today, our research consists of working with smaller questions contained within this largest question. To get a flavor for this work, in the second half of the semester, we'll have presentations from some of UMass faculty. Overall, my goals for Astronomy 191 are:

To familiarize you with the members of the Astronomy Department
To provide an environment in which you can interact with others interested in astronomy, and thereby create a network of support for your years at U.Mass.
To inform you about the Astronomy Major requirements and the options for various programs of study at U.Mass.

COURSE FORMAT

Class will meet weekly in the LGRT for a presentations, either on our own or by a member of the Astronomy faculty. Grades for the semester will be based on weekly attendance. The requirements and expectations will be described during the first class sesson. In addition to the Monday meetings, there will also be opportunities in the evenings for using the telescopes on Orchard Hill and for visiting the Amherst College Planetarium. For an updated schedule of Monday topics, check out the Course Schedule

Image: A ring galaxy observed by HST (credit STScI)