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ASTR 0011 - Observational Astronomy

http://catalog.sierracollege.edu/course-outlines/astr-0011/

Catalog Description DESCRIPTION IS HERE: Prerequisite: Completion with grade of "C" or better or concurrent enrollment in ASTR 2, 5, or 10 Advisory: Completion of ENGL N with grade of "C" or better Hours: 54 laboratory Description: Basic interpretation of astronomical observations through telescopes, binoculars, computers, cameras, and other simple measuring equipment. Use of planetarium to facilitate recognition of constellations, stars, planetary motions, and study coordinate systems and celestial motions. Development of observational skills to study outdoor sky and outcomes of indoor laboratory experiments. Emphasis on quantitative and qualitative analysis of variety of astronomical data. (CSU, UC) Units 1 Lecture-Discussion Laboratory 54 By Arrangement Contact Hours 54 Outside of Class Hours Course Student Learning Outcomes Demonstrate knowledge and skill in observational astronomy, showing correlation of the observable sky to events in the cosmos. Explain knowledge and skill in celestial navigation, evaluating the significance of important astronomical phenomena. Operate a variety of optical systems, demonstrating proficiency in their use. Relate core concepts in basic science to stellar astronomy, assessing the various factors that are important to stellar evolution. Course Content Outline I. Familiarization with Day and Night Sky II. Use of Planetarium as an Alternate Observing Environment III. Use of Simple Measuring Devices, Significant Figures, Error, and Scientific Notation IV. Use of Small Telescopes and Binoculars V. Optical Bench and Optical Parameters VI. Planispheres and Star Maps VII. Use of a Computer to Make Star Maps and Collect Data VIII. Study of the Moon IX. Study of the Planets X. Study of the Sun and Solar Rotation XI. Study of Deep Sky Objects XII. Astrophotography XIII. Digital Image Processing XIV. Computer Links with Remotely Operated Telescopes XV. Utilizing Telescopes with Digital Coordinate Systems XVI. Identification and parameter measurement of asteroids XVII. Planning an Observing Session XVIII. Determine the distance to star clusters and galaxies XIX. Sundial Project or other Special Projects Course Objectives Course Objectives Through assigned tasks, hands-on activities, computer-simulated exercises, classroom/online discussions, and quizzes/exams, students will: 1. Identify at least 12 constellations 2. Identify and describe some of the properties of 24 stars 3. Locate and describe at least 10 "deep sky objects" including star clusters, galaxies, nebula, multiple star systems 4. Locate planets in the night sky utilizing computer software 5. Make computations making proper use of significant figures 6. Make computations utilizing scientific notation 7. Make computations utilizing calculators and computers 8. Determine the phase of the moon and predict its location on a star map via a computer 9. Explain why there are seasons 10. Properly set up a small telescope for observations of the night sky 11. Compute the magnification power of a telescope 12. Compute the light gathering of a variety of telescopes 13. Compute the resolving power of a variety of telescopes 14. Prepare an observing scenario using a robotic observatory, small telescope, binoculars, or unaided eye with the aid of a computer 15. Identify and sketch planetary features using a small telescope 16. Use a computer to predict the orientation of the Jovian satellites 17. Use a reticule magnifier to measure features on astronomical photographs 18. Classify stellar spectra by observation of absorption lines 19. Plot a light curve and explain the nature an eclipsing binary system 20. Properly set up a telescope to safely observe the sun 21. Find celestial objects utilizing a planisphere 22. Demonstrate proper use of SC-001 (Equatorial Region) and SC-002 (North Circumpolar Region) star maps 23. Describe how to utilize a computer to generate a star map of selected regions of the sky 24. Process B&W and Color digital photographic data taken by a charged Couple Device using Image Processing software 25. Use an optical bench to determine optical parameters for mirrors and lenses 26. Construct and explain the operation of a sundial 27. Use simulator data to identify and measure direction and velocity of asteroids 28. Get students to Read the Lab so they can be better ready to complete it in the the time allotted 29. Determine image scale and actual size of objects in astrophotographs, including comets, and features on the moon 30. Calculate the sidereal and synodic period of the sun based on sunspot rotation data 31. Determine the spectral class, color and apparent magnitude of stars using a computer program 32. Determine the distance to star clusters using an H-R diagram Methods of Evaluation Objective Examinations Problem Solving Examinations Projects Reports Skill Demonstrations Reading Assignments 1. Reading from assigned text on a weekly basis. Example: Read the Chapter on "Stars for All Seasons". Be prepared to discuss in class. 2. Reading from supplemental handouts. Example: Read the "Meade LX-200 Telescope: Set-up and Take-down Procedure" handout. Students will then list the steps. Writing, Problem Solving or Performance 1. Weekly laboratory reports. Example question: Calculate the magnification for the LX-200 telescope using a 40 mm eyepiece. 2. Written sundial project report. Example demonstration: Calculate, design and build a sundial which functions. 3. Quizzes, Midterm, and final exam to demonstrate acquisition of critical thinking skills and astronomical knowledge. Example exam question: Suppose that you live in Saint Louis, MO. What is the altitude of Polaris? Other (Term projects, research papers, portfolios, etc.) One assignment is given for each week of class. Each of these assignments will be of a nature that is reflective of the course outcomes. In particular, for assignments that are of a hands-on nature, our online students will acquire this experience through computer simulations, remote access to a robotic telescope, and/or visits to a public telescope observation site (either at a Sierra College Astronomy Department site or one owned by a local astronomy club). Example: Using the LX-200, locate and sketch the crater Copernicus on the Lunar surface. Methods of Instruction Laboratory Distance Learning Other materials and-or supplies required of students that contribute to the cost of the course. 1. Laboratory exercise packet prepared by instructors and updated every semester, printed and packaged on campus and distributed through the campus bookstore.* 2. Laboratory handbook prepared by instructors and updated every semester, printed and packaged on campus and distributed through the campus bookstore.* 3. Star Maps SC-001 (Equatorial Region) and SC-002 (North Circumpolar Region). 4. "Skygazer's Almanac" for the most current year (recommended). * Lab exercises and handbook are written with relevance to existing facilities, equipment, and current course content.