ASTR 210 is a course on modern astronomy and astrophysics for the student with some background in science. The course presents and discusses the physical laws responsible for a variety of astronomical and astrophysical phenomena. Laboratory exercises emphasize the scientific techniques of astronomy and other sciences.
ASTR 210 is meant as a second astronomy course. ASTR 205 or equivalent is suggested for beginning students of astronomy. Those needing six credits of introductory astronomy may enrol in both courses in the sequence ASTR 205, ASTR 210.
Outline
Unit 1: Humanity and the Cosmos
Unit 2: Tools of the Astronomer
Unit 3: The Solar System
Unit 4: Stars and Their Properties
Unit 5: Galaxies and Cosmology
Evaluation
To receive credit for ASTR 210, you must achieve a course composite mark of at least a D (50 percent) and a grade of at least 50 percent on the final examination and laboratory exercises. The weighting of the composite mark is as follows:
Activity
Weight
5 Quizzes (3% each)
15%
Lab Exercise 1
5%
Lab Exercise 2
10%
Lab Exercise 3
10%
Lab Exercise 4
10%
Lab Exercise 5
10%
Final Exam
40%
Total
100%
The final examination for this course must be requested in advance and written under the supervision of an AU-approved exam invigilator. Invigilators include either ProctorU or an approved in-person invigilation centre that can accommodate online exams. Students are responsible for payment of any invigilation fees. Information on exam request deadlines, invigilators, and other exam-related questions, can be found at the Exams and grades section of the Calendar.
To learn more about assignments and examinations, please refer to Athabasca University’s online Calendar.
Materials
Freedman, R. A, and W. J. Kaufmann III. Universe, 8th ed. New York: W. H. Freeman, 2007. (Print)
The course materials also include a student manual, study guide, laboratory manual, and forms.
Challenge for credit
Overview
The challenge for credit process allows you to demonstrate that you have acquired a command of the general subject matter, knowledge, intellectual and/or other skills that would normally be found in a university-level course.
Full information about challenge for credit can be found in the Undergraduate Calendar.
Evaluation
To receive credit for the ASTR 210 challenge registration, you must achieve a grade of at least “C-” (60 percent) on the examination.
Athabasca University reserves the right to amend course outlines occasionally and without notice. Courses offered by other delivery methods may vary from their individualized study counterparts.