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3 credits
This course examines the universe, its structure and origins, the Big Bang, and initial conditions. It also examines the evolution of the universe, the formation of stars, planetary systems, and galaxies.
All educated citizens on the planet ought to understand the basics of the universe in which we reside. Because science plays a huge role, we need a scientific perspective: we’re a form of life on a small planet circling one ordinary star in one of a trillion galaxies in a universe that’s 13.7 billion light years (About 10 to the 23rd power in kilometers) in size. Astronomy courses give a student the chance to appreciate scientific issues faced by our society, too. And we get to appreciate the wonderful tools provided by physics and mathematics!Course Goals and Objectives1. Critical thinking about science2. Understanding how to use basic physics3. Learning how to solve problems quantitatively using a systematic approach4. Appreciating basic astronomy: through “Knowledge and Wonder”. *The learning goals displayed here are those for one section of this course as offered in a recent semester, and are provided for the purpose of information only. The exact learning goals for each course section in a specific semester will be stated on the syllabus distributed at the start of the semester, and may differ in wording and emphasis from those shown here.PHY 104: Astronomy
Distribution Requirement
Learning Goals
Sections Offered: Fall 2026
Course No.
Day
Credits
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0156-104-001
Mon, Wed, Fri
3
Sections Offered: Summer 2026, Summer I
Course No.
Day
Credits
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0156-104-001
TBA
3
Sections Offered: Summer 2026, Summer II
Course No.
Day
Credits
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0156-104-002
TBA
3