In Astro 150, an introductory course in modern astronomy for non-scientists,
we begin by understanding the motions, distances, sizes, and spectra of
stars. We explore how they are born, and the changes they go through as they
run out of fuel and die. This brings us to supernovae, neutron stars, and
black holes. We then step outwards and explore the structure and evolution of
our own Milky Way Galaxy, and the billions and billions of other galaxies,
clusters of galaxies, and bizarre active galaxies and quasars. We
investigate current theories of cosmology, the origin and structure of the
Universe, and the Big Bang, and finish with a brief discussion of the
possiblities of intelligent life in the Universe beyond Earth.
Help Room Hours for Astro 150 have been set
Prof. Kawaler is available during office hours from 3:00-5:00 on most Thursdays, in A323 Zaffarano Hall.
Bert Pablo and Frank Krennrich are also available - feel free to contact them directly to set up a time.
Click here for information on the term project option available to Astro 150 students to add up to an additional 15 points on your lowest exam score.
Project topics needed to be approved by Prof. Kawaler by Tuesday, April 16.
Projects are due by the last day of class: May 2
Projects are OPTIONAL - even if you've had a topic approved, there is not penalty for not handing it in
Once your topic is approved, check Blackboard to confirm that the topic is entered in your grade record.
Projects on topics that have not been approved will not get any credit.