Astronomy (ASTR)
Contact the Earth, Space, and Aviation Sciences Department for further
information.
(760) 744-1150, ext. 2512
Office: NS-110G
For transfer information, consult a Palomar College Counselor.
Associate in Arts Degrees -
AA Degree requirements are listed in Section 6 (green pages).
• Astronomy
Certificates of Achievement -
Certificate of Achievement requirements are listed in Section 6 (green
pages).
• Astronomy
PROGRAM OF STUDY
Astronomy
Provides the student with sufficient background to begin upper division
course
work. Transfer students should consult the four year college or
university catalog
for specific requirements or see a Palomar College counselor. Students
pursuing
a major in Astronomy at San Diego State University must complete a minor
in
Mathematics.
A.A. Degree Major or
Certificate of Achievement
Program Requirements Units
ASTR 100 Principles of Astronomy 3
ASTR 105L Introduction to Astronomy Laboratory 1
ASTR/GEOL 120 Planets, Moons and Comets 3
MATH 140 Calculus/Analytic Geometry, First Course 5
MATH 141 Calculus/Analytic Geometry, Second Course 4
MATH 205 Calculus/Analytic Geometry, Third Course 4
PHYS 230 Principles of Physics 5
PHYS 231 Principles of Physics 5
PHYS 232 Principles of Physics 4
TOTAL UNI TS 34
Recommended Electives: ASTR 210, 295
COURSE OFFERINGS
ASTR 100 Principles of Astronomy (3)
3 hours lecture
Transfer acceptability:
CSU; UC
The fundamental nature of the night sky as understood by pre 20th
century
scientists. Properties of the solar system, stars, black holes,
galaxies, and extragalactic
objects. Interstellar communication and extraterrestrial life.
ASTR 105L Introduction to Astronomy Laboratory (1)
3 hours laboratory
Prerequisite:
A minimum grade of ‘C’ in ASTR 100 or 120, or concurrent enrollment
in ASTR 100 or 120
Transfer acceptability:
CSU; UC
Exploration of the techniques used in astronomy to determine the
physical
properties of stars and galaxies. The physical nature of light and the
optical
principles of a telescope are also explored. Measurements of planetary
and stellar
phenomena are used to investigate the astronomical methods of
determining the
size, composition and age of the universe.
ASTR 120 Planets, Moons, and Comets (3)
3 hours lecture
Note:
Cross listed as GEOL 120
Transfer acceptability:
CSU; UC
The astronomy and geology of the solar system, observations, dynamics
relativistic
ideas, including theories of formation and evolution. Comparative survey
of
the atmospheres, surface features and interiors of planets and
satellites. Minor
objects, such as comets and asteroids, will be included.
ASTR 197 The Universe: Contemporary Topics
in the Space Sciences (1-3)
Units awarded in topics courses are dependent upon the number of hours
required
of the student. Any combination of lecture, laboratory, or
lecture/laboratory
may be scheduled by the department. Refer to Class Schedule.
Note:
May be taken 4 times
Transfer acceptability:
CSU; UC - Credit determined by UC upon review of
course syllabus.
Selected topics in astronomy and space sciences, emphasizing current
research
and discoveries. Refer to the Class Schedule for specific topics
covered.
ASTR 210 Life in the Universe (3)
3 hours lecture
Prerequisite:
A minimum grade of ‘C’ in ASTR 100 or 120
Transfer acceptability:
CSU
A scientific exploration of life in the universe using the findings of
astronomy biology,
and chemistry. Topics include the development of life and its
environments
on Earth, the search for life in the cosmos, interstellar communications
and travel,
and the effects of contact.
ASTR 295 Directed Study in Astronomy (1,2,3)
Arrange 3, 6, or 9 hours laboratory with department chairperson
Prerequisite:
A minimum grade of ‘C’ in ASTR 100 or 120
Note:
May be taken 4 times for a maximum of 6 units
Transfer acceptability:
CSU; UC - Credit determined by UC upon review of
course syllabus.
Individual study in field, library, or laboratory for interested
students.