For a more complete description of the majors:
Physics
Astronomy-Physics
Astrogeophysics
Physical Science
Pre-engineering
Astronomy Courses
[Descriptions taken from the Colgate University Course Catalogue]
ASTR 101 - Solar System Astronomy
T. Balonek / A. Aveni (alternate years)
An introductory course dealing with the large-scale environment in
the vicinity of the earth. Properties of the solar system, its origin,
and the possibility of intelligent life in the universe are discussed.
Class, laboratory and observing sessions. Offered in the fall only.
ASTR 102 - Stars, Galaxies, and the Universe
A. Aveni / T. Balonek (alternate years)
An introductory course dealing with the motions and physical
characteristics of the sun, stars, and galaxies, including such modern
topics as solar effects upon the earth, stellar explosions, and theories
of the origins of the universe. Class, laboratory and observing
sessions. Offered in the spring only.
ASTR 210 - Intermediate Astronomy and Astrophysics
T. Balonek
This discussion of the fundamental physical principles of astronomy
and astrophysics emphasizes topics of current interest such as black
holes, cosmology and quasars, stellar structure, and evolution.
Opportunity for research projects employing the 16-inch telescope and CCD
electronic camera. Prerequisites: MATH 111, 112 and co-registration in
PHYS 122. Offered in the fall only.
ASTR 212 - Astronomical Techniques
T. Balonek
This laboratory course introduces students to methods of data acquisition
and reduction using the university's 16-inch telescope, CCD electronic camera,
and image processing workstation. Students are instructed in methods of
astronomical imaging including detector calibration and atmospheric effects; in
fundamentals of photometric reductions, including obtaining a light curve for a
selected variable star; and in astronomical spectroscopy and spectral
classification. Prerequisites: PHYS 120, 121, MATH 111, 112, ASTR 210, or
102, or permission of instructor. Offered in the fall only.
ASTR 253 - Archaeoastronomy
A. Aveni
This interdisciplinary course studies the development of astronomy,
calendars, writing and numeration among early civilizations. Emphasis on
cultures of Bronze Age Britain, North American Indians, Maya and Aztec
civilizations of Mesoamerica, and the civilization of the Andes. The May
Course Segment deals with mapping and surveying techniques that are employed
during visits to the archaeological ruins of Mexico or Peru. Open to
sophomores and to juniors and seniors with permission of instructor. This
course does not count toward concentration in astronomy. This course is also
listed as SOAN 253.
ASTR 314 - Astrophysics
V. Mansfield
A mathematical application of the principles of physics to the study of the
constitution and physical conditions of planets, stars, nebulae, and the
interstellar medium. Computer skills desirable. Prerequisites: PHYS 122, MATH
309.
ASTR 316 - Galactic and Extragalactic Astronomy
T. Balonek
Study of astronomical techniques, methods and basic data relating to the
Milky Way Galaxy and objects located outside our galaxy, such as normal
objects located outside our galaxy, such as normal galaxies, radio galaxies
and quasars. Topics include galactic stellar populations, large-scale structure
and rotation of the galaxy, the structure and content of other galaxies,
galaxy classification, clusters of galaxies, active galactic nuclei, quasars,
and the large-scale structure of the universe. The physical processes
responsible for the radio, infrared, visual and x-ray radiation from these
objects are studied in detail. Prerequisites: PHYS 122, MATH 309.
ASTR 354 - Field Methods in Archaeoastronomy
A. Aveni
This course begins in Mexico between the fall and spring terms with guided
visits to and lectures on Mexico's National Museum of Anthropology, the ruins
of Teotihuacan and other sites. Students then participate with a team of
archaeologists and anthropologists from other institutions in survey work at
sites near the Mexican ruins. Of particular interest is determination of the
placement of ancient architectural benchmarks used to lay out cities and
ceremonial centers. Returning to campus, students work with data collected
in the field and present an oral as well as a written paper on a specialized
research subject relating to the field experience. Additional cost to
students- $1500. Prerequisites: ASTR 253 or SOAN 253, and permission of
instructor. This course is also listed as SOAN 354 and is offered each spring.
Go back to the Astronomy HomePage.
Please contact: tbalonek-AT-mail.colgate.edu
for questions, comments, ...
Last modified: August 18, 2006