7318 (v.5) Astronomy 101

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Area:	Department of Applied Physics
Credits:	12.5
Contact Hours:	2.0
Lecture:	2 x 1 Hours Weekly
Syllabus:	Size and structure of the universe. History of astronomy and celestial co-ordinates. Tools of the astronomer - telescopes and associated instruments. Stellar evolution. Birth and death of stars. Red giants, white dwarfs, supernovae, black holes. Cosmology, Big Bang, cosmic microwave background, future of the universe. Life in the universe.
Unit Outcomes:	On successful completion of this unit students will be able to describe, explain and discuss basic astronomical concepts, relationships and representations such as the evolution of the universe and stars. They will gain familiarity with the night sky and be able to identify major constellations and stars, as well as becoming aware of the facilities at the Perth Observatory and the activities of professional astronomers. Students will learn to estimate and calculate solutions to numerical and qualitative questions and will use the Internet to search and critically evaluate recent discoveries.
Text and references listed above are for your information only and current as of September 30, 2003. Please check with the unit coordinator for up-to-date information.
Unit References:	Chaisson, E. and McMillan, S., 2002, 'Astronomy Today' 4th edition, Prentice Hall, Upper Saddle River. Perth Observatory , 2003, 'Astronomy Almanac 2003'. Perth Observatory, 'Planisphere Starfinder'.
Unit Texts:	No prescribed text.
Unit Assessment Breakdown:	Assignment One 35%. Assignment Two 35%. Test 30%.
Year Location Period Internal Area External Central External 2004 Bentley Campus Semester 1 Y     2004 Bentley Campus Semester 2 Y