ASTRON 16 - Stellar and Planetary Astronomy

Faculty: John Johnson

This course provides an introduction to the physical principles describing the formation and evolution of stars and their planetary companions. Topics include thermal radiation and stellar spectra; telescopes; energy generation in stars; stellar evolution; orbital dynamics; the Solar system; and exoplanets. This course includes an observational component: students will determine the distance to the Sun, and use the Clay Telescope atop the Science Center to study stellar evolution and detect exoplanets.

Prerequisite(s)
Prerequisite: Physics 15a, Physics 16, or Physical Sciences 12a. May be taken concurrently.