Undergraduate Courses:
ASTR 2020 - Modern Astronomy (Fall Semesters)
This course provides a broad introduction to the observable universe. We begin studying the key physics concepts used in astronomy; motion, gravitation, and light. From here, this course then explores how we observe astronomical objects with telescopes, and uses these key physics concepts to study the nature of stars and galaxies. The course ends with an introduction to the field of cosmology, studying how stars and galaxies have evolved over cosmic time.
ASTR 2070 - The Solar System (Winter Semesters)
This course provides an introduction to our solar system and planetary astronomy. We begin studying eclipses and planetary motions, introducing key physics concepts (motion, gravitation, and light), and exploring how we observe astronomical objects with telescopes. From here, we explore the formation of the solar system, the physical structure of the planets, planetary atmospheres, and asteroids/comets. We end the course with a discussion of exoplanets and life beyond Earth.
ASTR 3020 - Galaxies and Cosmology (Winter Semesters)
This course provides a more in depth study of recent developments in the fields of Galaxies and Cosmology. We will discuss the topics of super-massive black holes, dark matter, dark energy, the expansion of the universe, the Big Bang Theory, inflation, structure within the universe, and the cosmological constant.
Graduate Courses:
PHYS 5525/7525 - Observational Astrophysics Methods (Winter Semesters)
This course provides a broad introduction to the instruments, observational methods, and data analysis techniques used in modern observational astrophysics. We begin studying the basics of radio, optical/infrared, X-ray/Gamma-ray, and multi-messenger telescope operation, and then move on to hands-on activities and tutorials designed to take students through the complete astrophysical research process; planning observations, applying for telescope time, and reducing the data to yield a scientific result. We will further address techniques in scientific writing, data visualization, and oral presentations of results. Lastly, the lab component of this course additionally offers students a practical demonstration of select concepts discussed in the lectures.
