Astronomy

This course will explore how astronomers have been able to discover Earth’s place in the universe, and the structure of the local galaxy and universe. Within this exploration, astronomers have also discovered thousands of other planets, and have begun to map the deepest extents of time and space. From the discovery of distant galaxies and signatures of the origins of the universe, we also have begun to unravel the mysteries of the Big Bang, the formation of the first stars and galaxies, and how the earth arose from billions of years of cosmic evolution. The course will explore the search for exoplanets and the early universe with a mix of in-class exercises, analysis of space-based datasets and observations with telescopes and instruments. The class will also explore how we have mapped the universe over the centuries - with a multicultural approach - and will examine the limits of our knowledge of the universe on the very largest and smallest scales. 

This course provides an introduction to both astrophysics and physics, exploring models of time and space that describe the universe's origins and evolution. The course will delve into both classical and modern concepts, including Einstein’s theories of relativity, the Big Bang, black holes, particle physics, and the discovery of the Higgs Boson at CERN. Students will learn how these models help us understand the fundamental forces and particles that govern the universe and key discoveries made possible by developing particle accelerators, gravitational wave detectors, and new space telescopes. The course will balance theoretical understanding with practical exploration of astronomical and cosmological phenomena, empowering students to think critically about the universe and its underlying physics. The course will be taught at a level that minimizes the use of mathematics and explores the most profound concepts of how physics and astrophysics shape our conceptions of reality and have enabled us to map the physical universe from the smallest possible scales to the limits of the observable universe.

Students will engage with both historical and modern theories, develop a deep understanding of the forces that govern the universe, and explore the practical applications of these theories in scientific research and technology