Course Descriptions

GEO 109 - General Astronomy

4 Credits

This introductory astronomy course includes topics such as the solar system, planetary geology, stellar evolution, celestial models, and constellation identification. Students will gain valuable experience in observational techniques and data analysis, fostering a deeper understanding of the cosmos and the scientific methods used in astronomy. This course is ideal for anyone interested in the wonders of the universe and the tools used to explore it.

New SUNY General Education: SUNY - Critical Thinking and Reasoning Competency, SUNY - Natural Sciences (and Scientific Reasoning)

Course Learning Outcomes
1.Apply the scientific method as it relates to astronomy.
2.Create accurate representations of the Solar System, including both diagrams and scaled models, to illustrate celestial bodies, their orbits, and relative distances.
3.Diagram the celestial sphere, including the definition and identification of constellations, key celestial objects, and directional points of reference.
4.Describe how Earth's motion and a person's location affect observations of the sky.
5.Outline how motion (including orbital motion) is characterized by Newton’s laws.
6.Apply Kepler’s Laws to analyze orbital mechanics, calculating the orbital periods and distances of celestial objects.
7.Summarize the relationship between gravity, mass, and distance.
8.Explain celestial phenomena, such as eclipses and lunar phases, by describing the movements and positions of celestial bodies.
9.Compare the composition and physical features of objects in our solar system to contextualize their origins.
10.Evaluate the geological features and relative ages of planetary surfaces, examining how these factors contribute to our understanding of planetary formation and evolution.
11.Compare and contrast refracting and reflecting telescopes, utilizing observational tools like virtual models and planispheres to identify and chart celestial objects in the sky.
12.Define the electromagnetic spectrum and measure the light spectra of various celestial objects, applying concepts like Wien’s Law to explore relationships between temperature and wavelength.
13.Investigate stellar characteristics by using absolute and apparent magnitudes to determine the age, size, luminosity, and distances to stars.
14.Classify stars using temperature-luminosity diagrams.
15.Assess the potential for finding Earth-like planets in other star systems, exploring the conditions necessary for life and the implications for future exploration.
16.Explain current theories regarding the fate of the Universe, such as the Big Bang Theory.

Course Offered Fall, Spring

Use links below to see if this course is offered:
Intersession 2025
Spring Semester 2025