2010 Course Handbook
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ASTR170: Introductory Astronomy
This is a first year foundation unit in astronomy, suitable for aspiring physicists/astronomers and non-scientists alike. No prior knowledge of astronomy or physics is required. This unit gives a broad underpinning of basic astronomical subjects and concepts with minimal mathematical content. A diverse range of astronomical topics are covered, starting with the solar system, including comets and asteroids; and then increasing in scale to Galactic stars, nebulae, the interstellar medium, our own Milky Way galaxy, galaxy clusters, quasars, black holes and basic cosmology. Key fundamental physical principles, theories and observational technologies are covered. Experimental work is both hands-on and computer based, and covers such areas as galaxy classification, eclipses, spectroscopy and geometrical optics. A session at the Macquarie University Observatory forms an integral part of the practical work.
| Credit Points: | 3 |
| Contact Hours: | 5 |
| When Offered: | D1 - Day; Offered in the first half-year |
| Staff Contact(s): | Physics staff |
| Prerequisites: | |
| Corequisites: | |
| NCCW(s): | PHYS270, PHYS277 |
| Unit Designation(s): | |
| Assessed As: | Graded |
| Offered By: | Department of Physics and Astronomy |
Timetable Information
For unit timetable information please visit the Timetables@Macquarie Website .