Astronomy (AST)

Please refer to Physics for departmental contact information.

Recurring astronomical phenomena such as day and night, the lunar phases, summer and winter, eclipses, and the motions of planets can all be predicted with accuracy by the orderly use of simple natural laws. Knowledge of astronomy, the ultimate frontier in space and time, extends awareness beyond ordinary terrestrial concerns. Study about and guided practice in using the actual methods and tools used by astronomy scholars allows novices to sense the thrill of discovery.

Courses in astronomy are designed for students who seek to fulfill the general education requirement in natural science, or to meet the requirements for the Elementary Education major in Integrated Science, or to develop their understanding of classical and modern astronomy.