345 ASTRONOMY

This class is designed to familiarize students with the origin, evolution and structure of the universe. Numerous topics will be discussed in this class including: the solar system and its members (sun, moon, planets, comets), seasons, eclipses, star finding and constellations (reading star charts), starts (characteristics and stellar evolution), aspects of the celestial sphere, spectroscopy (light and the electromagnetic spectrum), and types of telescopes. Hands-on lab activities will be an integral part of this course. Daytime observation of the sun (with a specially equipped telescope) and optional evening observation sessions will be offered. Hands-on laboratory activities will be an integral part of this course.