Observational Astronomy

Astronomy 25

I. Course Description:

This laboratory course is an introduction to observational astronomy with an emphasis on techniques used to observe, study and enjoy celestial objects, which include the moon, planets, sun, stars, and deep-sky objects. Students will use the college-owned telescopes and observatory to find and study a variety of celestial objects. One class will be held at a site off Ortega Highway, and a field trip is at a site in the Anza-Borrego State Park. Transportation will be provided for both trips, if desired.

II. Prerequisites: None

III. Required material:

- Norton*s Star Atlas 2000 (available in bookstore)

- For Anza trip: appropriate clothing, sunscreen/chapstick, food, drink, etc.

IV. Optional material:

-Binoculars

-Folding Chair (especially helpful on field trips)

-Telescope (if you have one, and want to bring it on observing nights, see me.)

V. Grades:

The course grade is based on several lab reports, attendance, and two tests. The breakdown is as follows:

Midterm 20%

Labs 50%

Attendance/Participation 10%

Final 20%

Attendance and participation are a crucial part of the grade since some labs will not require a write-up.

VI. Make-up lab policy

Students should avoid missing labs performed off-site or which involve the use of school-owned equipment. However, in the event such labs are missed for whatever reason, make-up labs will be handed out the last week of instruction (before the final exam). These make-up labs are due the night of the final exam. It is the student*s responsibility to track missed labs. This policy is also in effect for the weekend field trip. The student can only make-up two labs. Late labs will suffer grade-extinction.