Results for astronomy

(Formerly GEOLSCI 122 and 222) (Students with a strong background in mathematics and the physical sciences should register for 222.) Motions of planets and smaller bodies, energy transport in planetary systems, composition, structure and dynamics of planetary atmospheres, cratering on planetary surfaces, properties of meteorites, asteroids and comets, extrasolar planets, and planetary formation. Prerequisite: some background in the physical sciences, especially astronomy, geophysics, or physics. Students need instructor approval to take the course for 2 or 4 units. Change of Department Name: Earth and Planetary Science (Formerly Geologic Sciences).

(Formerly GEOLSCI 122 and 222) (Students with a strong background in mathematics and the physical sciences should register for 222.) Motions of planets and smaller bodies, energy transport in planetary systems, composition, structure and dynamics of planetary atmospheres, cratering on planetary surfaces, properties of meteorites, asteroids and comets, extrasolar planets, and planetary formation. Prerequisite: some background in the physical sciences, especially astronomy, geophysics, or physics. Students need instructor approval to take the course for 2 or 4 units. Change of Department Name: Earth and Planetary Science (Formerly Geologic Sciences).

(Formerly GEOLSCI 122 and 222) (Students with a strong background in mathematics and the physical sciences should register for 222.) Motions of planets and smaller bodies, energy transport in planetary systems, composition, structure and dynamics of planetary atmospheres, cratering on planetary surfaces, properties of meteorites, asteroids and comets, extrasolar planets, and planetary formation. Prerequisite: some background in the physical sciences, especially astronomy, geophysics, or physics. Students need instructor approval to take the course for 2 or 4 units. Change of Department Name: Earth and Planetary Science (Formerly Geologic Sciences).

Italy was central to the Scientific Revolution during the Renaissance. The work of Galileo Galilei, Leonardo da Vinci, and others in Italy and across Europe, catalyzed the emergence of modern science, with profound changes in our worldview. The work of these Italians contributed to the rise of the scientific method, the development of modern sciences (especially astronomy, biology, physics, and mathematics), and the study of human anatomy and medicine. Technologic innovations, such as the telescope, microscope, accurate timepieces, and the printing press, were also pivotal for the Scientific Revolution. In this course we will explore the emergence of science and technology during the Renaissance and their connections to modern day scientific practice and principles, with a focus on key Italian pioneers. We will take advantage of Florence's location to visit museums and sites, and better appreciate their contributions to scientific methods and thinking.

Introduction to observational astronomy emphasizing the use of optical telescopes. Observations of stars, nebulae, and galaxies in laboratory sessions with telescopes at the Stanford Student Observatory. Meets at the observatory one evening per week from dusk until well after dark, in addition to day-time lectures each week. No previous physics required. Limited enrollment.

Designed for undergraduate physics majors but is open to all students with a calculus-based physics background and some laboratory and coding experience. Students make and analyze observations using the telescopes at the Stanford Student Observatory. Topics covered include navigating the night sky, the physics of stars and galaxies, telescope instrumentation and operation, imaging techniques, quantitative error analysis, and effective scientific communication. The course concludes with an independent project where student teams propose and execute an observational astronomy project of their choosing, using techniques learned in class to gather and analyze their data, and presenting their findings in the forms of professional-style oral presentations and research papers. Suggested preparation: Physics 89L. Enrollment by permission. Due to physical limitations at the observatory, this class has a firm enrollment cap. We may not be able to accommodate all requests to enroll. Before permission numbers are given students must complete this form: https://forms.gle/KDarBRcZWJZG3qr66.

Designed for physics graduate students but open to all graduate students with a calculus-based physics background and some laboratory and coding experience. Students make and analyze observations using the telescopes at the Stanford Student Observatory. Topics covered include navigating the night sky, the physics of stars and galaxies, telescope instrumentation and operation, imaging and spectroscopic techniques, quantitative error analysis, and effective scientific communication. The course concludes with an independent project where student teams propose and execute an observational astronomy project of their choosing, using techniques learned in class to gather and analyze their data, and presenting their findings in the forms of professional-style oral presentations and research papers. Enrollment by permission. To get a permission number please complete form: https://forms.gle/KDarBRcZWJZG3qr66 form. If you have not heard from us by the beginning of class, please come to the first class session.

Theory, principles, and procedures of terrestrial and celestial navigation and piloting techniques. A study of coordinating systems, including the celestial coordinate system, nautical charts and publications, position fixing, dead reckoning, nautical astronomy, the theory and methods of celestial navigation, and the theory and prediction of tides and current. Three hours of lecture and one hour of laboratory per week. Course is offered in the Spring Quarter.

This course will introduce students to the fundamentals of nature journaling. Nature journaling is a practice of observing and recording the natural world, much as one might record their lives in a daily journal. Nature journaling provides a path for sharpening curiosity and attention as it deepens understanding and appreciation of nature. In this class, students will learn the basics of observation, inquiry, and engagement with your surroundings. You will learn basic drawing techniques to help achieve those learning outcomes. Using common resources (pens, pencils, paper) students will record observations, drawings, diagrams, descriptions and maps. This course is designed to be interactive and community based. Students will share photos of their journal pages and will give and receive constructive feedback from both instructors and peers. Content will include botany, wildlife, geology, and astronomy, while still primarily focusing on the process of observing and recording. No prior knowledge or experience is required. Assignments can be done in the wilderness, in your backyard, or even in your house.