Introduction to Astronomy

Introduction to Astronomy is a one-semester course that is designed to enable students to learn the basics of astronomy. The course begins with coverage of the history of astronomy from ancient times to modern times. Student then learn to identify the movements of the Sun, Moon, planets, and stars across the sky and to describe the formation of the solar system and the role of the Sun and Moon in the solar system. The course goes on to cover the causes of seasons on Earth and why Earth can sustain life. The course culminates in a study of the stars, galaxies, and the Milky Way, various theories of cosmology, and advantages and disadvantages of space exploration.