ASTR-118 Stellar Astronomy

Credits 4 / 3 Contact Hours
Pre-requisite: Placement into ACRD 080 . Co-requisite: ASTR-118L .
This course addresses the universe beyond our Solar System. Studies include the evolution of the stars in our galaxy and the universe beyond the Milky Way. Theories on how the universe began and how it might end are explored. Other topics related to stars and galaxies including quasars pulsars and black holes are discussed.

BILLABLE CONTACT HOURS FOR LECTURE/LAB: 5

Course Outcomes
1. Define key astronomical terms, such as galaxy, nebula, star cluster, and black hole, to explain the organization of matter in the universe.
2. Describe the life cycle of a star, including stages from nebula to main sequence, red giant, supernova, and end states like white dwarf, neutron star, or black hole.
3. Identify different types of stars (e.g., main sequence, giants, dwarfs) based on their spectral characteristics, luminosity, and temperature.

4. Explain the process of nuclear fusion in stars and how it contributes to the generation of energy and the formation of heavier elements.
5. Compare the different types of galaxies (spiral, elliptical, and irregular) and their characteristics, distribution, and role in the universe.
6. Discuss the concepts of star clusters, such as open and globular clusters, and their significance in understanding stellar evolution.
7. Interpret the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram to classify stars and explain their evolutionary stages.
8. Describe the evidence for the expanding universe and the significance of the Big Bang theory in explaining the universe’s origin and evolution.
9. Apply the concepts of light-years and parsecs to measure distances between celestial objects and describe the scale of the universe.
10.Explain the roles of dark matter and dark energy in the current understanding of the universe’s structure and its ongoing expansion.