SYLLABUS
Physics 175X  - FALL 2006

FINAL EXAM IS ON THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7th

Homework Link

Introduction to Astronomy
3+1 credits (Lectures + laboratory)
Prerequisites: None beyond general UAF entry requirements.

Lectures:  T/R 11:30 to 1:00, NSCI 201B
Lab: NSCI 252. Each student must attend one of the lab sections. Note some lab sections are held in the evening.

INSTRUCTOR:
Hans Nielsen,
Office hours are T/R 8-11 am (prior to class) - NSCI 110
Office Phone: (NSCI) 474-6793 or (GI) 474-7414                 
E-MAIL: hnielsen@gi.alaska.edu

Laboratories will be conducted by teaching assistants under the supervision of Mr. Robert Parsons (NSCI 113, 474-7857)

TEXTBOOK:
Fraknoi, Morrison, and Wollf "Voyages through the Universe" Third Edition or 2006 Special Edition

COURSE OUTLINE:
The course will cover the basic concepts in planetary and stellar astronomy as well the historical development of astronomy. Astronomy is the oldest of the sciences, and because of its roots in antiquity it carries with it terminology that today appears to be rather illogical and even un-scientific. But exactly because of its deep roots it also reflects the changing society. During the course these interactions will be examined. In the last few years, astronomers have made headline-grabbing observations based on the many new technologies that have become available. Currently, we have the NASA Mars mission; we had Deep-Impact; and outside the Solar system astronomers have identified stars with planet-like orbiting bodies. Spectacular images have been provided by The Hubble Space telescope, but the future of Hubble is in doubt. Recently there have been observations indicating the existence of "dark matter" and “dark energy" that seems to force a complete change of our view of the Universe. During the lectures, subject areas in the recent news will be emphasized and will be presented in the context of current scientific theories for how the observable Universe works. The primary aim of the course is to give the students a basic understanding so that they can understand news and popular science articles on astronomy.

In addition, we will also discuss the general nature of science: What is science? And, what are the rules that govern scientific work? An understanding of the nature of science and, in particular, its limitations is an important part of the course.

There will be (weather permitting) opportunities for night observations using our telescopes. These observations will be done in connection with the evening laboratory sections. Participation is entirely voluntary.

INSTRUCTIONAL METHODS:
The course consists of lectures, labs, and homework. The lectures will concentrate on concepts and follow the textbook.  Extended coverage will be given to topics in the news and of relevance to research at UAF (e.g. the aurora).  Every 2 weeks a 10 minute written quiz will be conducted as part of the lecture. The lab exercises will concentrate on quantitative analysis of experimental data including graphing and very elementary error analysis. Teaching assistants are available to provide all help needed.  Homework will primarily be on concepts, but there will also be some quantitative problems. Quantitative problems, when posed, will require algebra and simple linear equations only. There will be no higher math or calculus.

Homework (click here for current assignments):
One set per week. Due day is Thursday. Late homework will take a penalty. 12 sets with the 10 best scores counted towards the grade. Homework will be assigned each Tuesday in class and will be posted on the PHYS 175X web page.

Quizzes:
There will be a 10 minute quiz given bi-weekly (on Tuesdays) starting September 19. This makes for a total of 6. The 5 best will count towards the grade.

Final:
The final exam will be at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, December 7th, 2006 in NSCI 201B

Laboratories:
Lab reports are to be finished during the period of the lab. There are 11 laboratory exercises. There will be no regular labs during the week of Thanksgiving. A “makeup-lab” will be offered during the week of Thanksgiving. The 9 best lab scores will count towards the grade. NOTE: TO PASS THE COURSE, A MINIMUM OF 7 LABS MUST HAVE BEEN COMPLETED. 

If attending a lab outside the one registered for a written permission must be given by the lab supervisor, Mr. Robert Parsons (Office: NSCI 113, phone 474-7857).

GRADING:

At the discretion of the Instructor a maximum of 10% extra may be awarded for classroom participation and attendance, general interest, extra homework and labs, etc.
           
A: >90%; B: 75-90%; C: 55-75%, D: 40-55%, F: <40% (or <7 labs)

SUPPORT SERVICES:
Instructor and lab T/As are available for help with homework etc. The Physics Department also maintains an office staffed with graduate students to provide general help to students in all physics classes. The instructor will work with the Office of Disabilities Services to provide reasonable accommodation to students with disabilities.