Astronomy (ASTR)

Contact the Earth Sciences Department for further information, (760)

744-1150, ext. 2512. For transfer information, consult a Palomar

College counselor.

Associate in Arts degree requirements are listed in Section 6

of the catalog. Certificates of Achievement or Proficiency

require a minimum grade of “C” in each of the required

courses.

PLANETARIUM

Palomar College offers several types of planetarium

programs for the community. School programs are

presented on Tuesday and Thursday mornings for area

elementary and secondary schools. The planetarium also

offers two evening shows a month, open to the public. For

further information, contact the planetarium at (760)

744-1150, ext. 2833 or the Earth Sciences Department.

PROGRAM OF STUDY

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 120      Planets, Moons and Comets                                3

ASTR 105L    Introduction to Astronomy Laboratory               1

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 UNITS                                                                              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: Completion of, or concurrent enrollment in, ASTR 100, 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: 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: 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.