Week 1 Overview
Overview
This week we will be focusing on a brief look at the big picture of the Universe and on the guiding scientific principles and mathematical tools that astronomers use.
By the end of this week, you should:
- be able to describe our "cosmic address".
- be able to explain the main features of the scientific method.
- be familiar with some of the mathematical language of astronomy.
- be able to describe distances to and sizes of structures in terms of light-travel time.
Make sure that you complete the following:
- Introductory Survey (5 extra credit points; due Jan 12).
- Attend lectures on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9:10am (JFB 101).
- Complete Reading Quiz (1.1-1.2) before the lecture on Thursday (due Jan 9, 8:00am).
- Homework 1.
- Pre-Class Survey (10 extra credit points; due Jan 12).
Learning Materials
Readings
- Before Thursday, please read Chapter 1.1 and 1.2 of Understanding our Universe
Lecture Slide Decks
- Lecture 1: pdf slides Download pdf slides and zoom recording Links to an external site.
- Lecture 2: pdf slides Download pdf slides and zoom recording Links to an external site.
Activities
- Reading Quiz (1.1-1.2): Due Thursday, Jan 9 at 8:00am.
- Thursday, Jan 9, Group Assignment in class
- Homework 1: Due Sunday, Jan 12 at 11:59pm.
prepare for next week
Please read Section 1.3 and "Reading Astronomy News" from Chapter 1 in Understanding Our Universe, and take Reading Quiz 1.3 by 8:00am next Tuesday.