ASTRONOMY (AST 109)
Introductory Astronomy: Planetary Astronomy
Prerequisite(s):
Mathematics 120 or equivalent or consent of the instructor
Credits:
3
Transfer Status:
UNR/UNLV (General University Transfer)
AST 109:
Meets T/Th 4:00 – 5:15 PM @ the Jack C. Davis Observatory
I.
Course Description
This course offers a descriptive introduction to current concepts and physical
properties of the planets, moons, asteroids and various icy bodies in the Solar
System. Fundamental ideas of celestial mechanics, light and modern techniques for
both Earth and space based telescopes will be discussed. Observations of planets
and other space objects through telescopes will be conducted. The facilities of the
Jack C. Davis Observatory will be utilized during the course. The course will include 4
lab experiences.
II.
Course Objectives
Upon the completion of this course, the student will acquire knowledge of planetary astronomy,
with a minimum accuracy of 80%, related to the following objective:
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Perform fundamental calculations solving a broad range of astronomical problems.
Apply specialized vocabulary as it relates to astronomy.
Develop an appreciation and understanding of the historical evolution of the ancient
science of astronomy as well as on-going present day space exploration.
Describe and characterize planetary evolution in our Solar System as well as learn
physical properties and features of planets, moons, asteroids, comets and other spatial
material. Comparative planetology will be emphasized with discussion of our central star,
the Sun. Our study will extend out to discussions of the Kuiper belt and the Oort cloud.
Explore the theories of the creation of the Moon and Solar System
Identify some seasonal constellations and learn to use a telescope.
Course Linkage
Linkage of course to educational program mission and at least one educational program outcome.
General Education Mission: AST 109 is a general education class that promotes the
development of knowledge, skills, and attitudes that will benefit students in their personal and
professional endeavors. General Education Student Learning Outcome: Students who
successfully complete AST 109 satisfy the general education learning outcome of having
problem solving, creative, and critical thinking skills. In addition, students will understand the
methods of science and the role of science and technology in the modern world. Program
Mission for AA/AS degree: AST 109 satisfies the A.A. /A.S. degree mission by providing
academic knowledge and skills for successful transfer to meet higher educational goals.
Program Student Learning Outcomes for AA/AS degree: Students who successfully complete
AST 109 will know the subject matter appropriate to the emphasis of the degree.
III.
Topical Outline
(Part I – Astronomy and the Universe)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Charting the Heavens: The Foundations of Astronomy
The Copernican Revolution: The Birth of Modern Science
Radiation: Information from the Cosmos
Spectroscopy: The Inner Workings of the Atom
Telescopes: The Tools of Astronomy
(Part II - Our Planetary System)
6. The Solar System (An Introduction to Comparative Planetology)
7. The Earth: Our Home in Space
8. The Moon and Mercury: Scorched and Battered Worlds
9. Venus: Earth’s Sister Planet
10. Mars: A near Miss for Life?
11. Jupiter: Giant of the Solar System
12. Saturn: Spectacular Rings and Mysterious Moons
13. Uranus and Neptune: The Outer Worlds of the Solar System
14. The Solar System Debris: Keys to our Origin
15. The Formation of the Planetary System: The Solar System and Beyond
16. The Sun: Our parent Star (Will be integrated throughout the course)
IV.
Methods of Instruction
Class Structure:
1. Q & A on Previous Lecture
Homework Review
Lecture New Material
Class Interaction, Practice Session on Concepts & New Material
Students should read all chapter material before coming to lecture
Homework Assignment (Computer Generated)
2. Laboratory
There will be some class demonstrations including hands-on activities using
planispheres and star charts and globes. Some geometric optics investigations
demonstrating the physical properties of light will be developed. Also, students will
make observations of the Sky (Naked Eye and Telescopes). Each student will learn to
operate a telescope.
V.
Student Evaluation and Assessment:
Grading Structure:
Chapter tests, Quizzes
25%
Observations/Special Assignments
25%
Homework/Extra Credit Problems
25%
Final Examination
25%
Grading Scale:
A = 95-100%
A- = 90 - 94%
4.0
3.7
B+ = 85 - 89%
3.3
B = 80 - 84%
3.0
C+ = 75 - 79%
2.3
C = 70 - 74%
2.0
D+ = 65- 69%
1.3
D = 60-64%
1.0
F < 60%
0.0
Tests will be a combination of essay, fill-in the blanks, true/false and multiple choice.
Attendance: WNC guidelines stipulate only one absence per credit, however, the course
moves quickly and missing one session can create a hardship. I would encourage
students to set a goal to attend all classes and be prepared for every class session.
More than 3 unexcused absences will constitute Automatic Dismissal from this class.
Homework: WNC guidelines stipulate 2 hours of concentrated study per credit per
week. Homework is assigned to allow students opportunities to gain skill and
understanding on a deep and fundamental level. Time to master the skills will vary
among the student population and so greater amounts of time might be warranted for
academic success.
Make – Up Work: Absences will be noted by the instructor and unexcused absences will
be noted as well. When a student misses a class it is her/his responsibility to let the
instructor know the reason to determine excuse status. A plan will be formulated with
the student to bring the student up to speed with the class ASAP. All make-up work
must be submitted within 1 week of the class absence for full credit.
Late Homework Policy: Students must turn in work one week from the time of the
initial assignment. Late homework will be factored down 25% if turned in one week late.
Assignments after being one week late will not be graded. No late assignment will be
graded on chapters covered on the test. One primary objective for assigned
homework is to help prepare the student for an impending test.
VI.
Instructional Materials:
Textbook – Astronomy Today by Chaisson and McMillan (7thed. or later). Any and all
supplementary materials will be provided for each student. Students can go on line to
access additional study materials, videos, and self diagnostics.
Note: All students are encouraged to use the Joe Dini Library on a regular basis. Reading
parallel of the course materials will be an educational enhancement to your knowledge
base and an opportunity to broaden your understanding of astronomy. The astronomy
section in the library is QB. In addition there are journals and magazines available for
you in a wide area of science and astronomy (Journals like: Science, Sky and Telescope,
Astronomy to name a few that are available) Specialized videos such as the Mechanical
Universe and Nova may be viewed in the library as well. (Feel free to ask the librarian or
the circulation desk worker for help finding materials, as needed.)
There is free tutoring in science at the Learning Skills Center on campus.
I am willing to meet with individuals or groups of students, by appointment, to offer
additional help with concepts, problems, and observations.
VII.
Contact
I may be contacted by on my cell phone at 250-0294 (please, no calls after 9 PM). If I
can’t be reached you may contact the Science Administrative Assistant at 775-445-3290.
Email – robert.collier@wnc.edu or robertdcollier@gmail.com
Science, Mathematics, and Engineering (SME) Mission Statement:
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To prepare students to succeed in college-level science, mathematics, and engineering
courses
To prepare students to transfer to 4-year colleges.
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To provide students with the knowledge they need in their careers.
To provide students with opportunities for personal enrichment.
Academic Integrity
Although students are encouraged to work in groups and help each other, students must be
honest, turn in all work on an individual basis, and must not copy another student’s work.
Plagiarism in any form will not be tolerated and those that practice any form of plagiarism will
be given a zero for their work. Any infraction(s) of this policy could result in an automatic
dismissal from this class.
Additional Support
*WNC supports providing equal access for students with disabilities. Susan Trist (DSS coordinator) is
available to discuss appropriate academic accommodations that students may require. Please contact
Susan (774-445-3268) at your earliest convenience.
Class Rules:
1. All cell phones must be placed in your purse or pocket and set to vibrate only or turned
off before class begins. No texting or any cell phone traffic in class will be tolerated.
This class will require all your attention at all time to be successful.
2. The class will be conducted informally; however, all conversation in class must be
directed to the teacher. All questions will be answered by raising your hand. Questions
are always encouraged.
Revised:08/15/2013….RDC