Courses in Astronomy

Eastern Michigan University

Department of Physics and Astronomy

ASTR 203 Exploration of the Universe (3 hrs)
An introductory astronomy course for students of any curriculum. The solar system, stars, galaxies, cosmology, and the history of astronomy. Observations with telescopesscheduled a few evenings each semester. ASTR 204 may be taken concurrently with this course. Cannot be applied toward a physics major or minor.
Instructors: Dr. Patrick Koehn, Dr. Diane Jacobs, Norbert Vance, David Bush, Joe Lowry
Spring/Summer sections offered

ASTR 204 Astronomical Investigations (1 hr)
A laboratory course for the beginning astronomy student. The techniques and concepts of astronomy. Two hours of laboratory per week.
Prereq or coreq: ASTR 203 or ASTR 205.
Instructor: Norbert Vance (Lab Assistants)
Spring section offered

ASTR 205 Principles of Astronomy (4 hrs)
An astronomy course for students desiring a comprehensive introduction to astronomy. Topics discussed in ASTR 203 are covered in more detail and additional topics are introduced. Especially recommended for science students. ASTR 204 may be taken concurrently. Not open to students with credit in ASTR 203.
Instructors: Dr. Patrick Koehn, David Bush
Spring/Summer sections offered

ASTR 311  Astronomy for Elementary Teachers (3 hrs)
A methods course designed to provide prospective elementary school teachers with the knowledge, skills, and resources to teach the State mandated astronomy curriculum.
Instructor: Dr. Diane Jacobs

ASTR 315 Observational Astronomy (3 hrs)
The practical aspects of astronomy emphasizing advanced amateur observational practices such as identification and location of astronomical objects using the fine selection of equipment and modern telescopes available in Sherzer Observatory.  Related topics such as use of charts, references, and computer applications along with CCD imaging techniques are covered.  Offered during the Fall semester only when weather conditions are most ideal.
Meeting times: Wednesday  7:15pm - 9:55pm    Classroom:  402 Sherzer (see Fall listing below)
Instructor: Norbert Vance
Prereq: ASTR 203 or ASTR 205.

ASTR 370 Astrophysical Concepts (3 hrs)
The emphasis is on the theoretical understanding and analytical treatment of topics in
astrophysics. These topics include celestial mechanics, astronautics, planetary
atmospheres, stellar structure, stellar evolution, galaxies, and cosmology.
Meeting times: TBA

Special Topics Offerings
( in addition to the courses offered above )  

Spring 2008
ASTR 378/591 Observational Astronomy at Fish Lake (2 hrs)
A three evening and one morning field course offered under the rural skies of Fish Lake near Lapeer, MI, emphasizing practical aspects of amateur observational astronomy such as identification of celestial objects using charts and references, telescope use, and digital camera imaging. The moon, summer Milky Way, select planets, and even the sun are well placed for observation during the period of this course. Excellent for educators looking to satisfy additional post grad credit offered through Continuing Education. Stayover at KEEC during the three nights is recommended. Does not substitute for Fall ASTR 315/591 course.
Meeting times: Thur 6pm-11pm, Fri 4pm-midnight, Sat 4pm-midnight, Sun, 9am-noon, June 5-8, 2008
Instructor: Norbert Vance  Phone: 734-487-4146 Email: nvance@emich.edu

Return to: Sherzer Observatory homepage