300

This course is an introduction to the physics of astronomical phenomena, including celestial dynamics, the interaction of electromagnetic radiation and matter, planets, stellar structure, stellar evolution, stellar remnants, galaxies, dark matter, cosmology and the history of the universe. Must be completed with a grade of “C” or better to count toward the physics major and minor. Lecture only.

This advanced course introduces the physical components of galaxies, their different morphologies, dynamical properties, assembly histories, interactions, clustering at large scales, and the early history of the Universe. Students will explore the fast-evolving open questions on galaxy formation and evolution, and learn about current research methods and telescope missions. Must be completed with a grade of “C” or better to count toward the physics major and minor. Lecture only.

Astrobiology is a cross-disciplinary study, bringing together biology, astronomy, oceanography, atmospheric science, chemistry, planetary science, and geology to study the origins of life in the universe. In this course we will examine the origins of life on Earth, the synthesis of organic molecules in space, the origin of solar systems and the possibility of life on other worlds. Must be completed with a grade of “C” or better to count toward the physics major and minor. Lecture only.