Fundamental Concepts in Astronomy: The Sky and the
Solar System
Fall 2001
This course is open only to teaching students from the Curry School.
This course provides a nonmathematical introduction to the astronomy of the
Solar System. It is intended primarily for non-science majors, and the
course satisfies three hours of the science area requirement. Topics which
are covered include: the night sky: a brief history of astronomy through
Newton: the Earth as a planet; the exploration of the Moon; the properties
of the other planets and their moons; the nature of space travel; comets,
meteors, and asteroids; the Sun and its central role in the Solar System;
the origin of the Solar System; and, time permitting, extraterrestrial life.
The most recent results from space missions will be highlighted.
