Mar 12, 2026  
2025-2026 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
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2025-2026 Undergraduate Catalog

PH 235 Observational Astronomy

(4 credits)
Observational Astronomy will introduce students to the tools and techniques that are used for observing and imaging objects in space. The course will begin with an introduction to the basics of the night sky and then explore navigating the sky with the naked-eye, star charts, observational apps and software. Next, students will be introduced to observing tools that include various types of telescopes, cameras, and spectroscopes. Students will also learn how to process astronomical images and data and connect how data is used in observational astronomy research. The course will have to run in part in the evening so that nighttime celestial objects can be viewed and studied. It will be designed to introduce students to necessary theory and observing techniques prior to observing nights so students can get a full understanding of observational astronomy and its application to a bigger understanding of our Universe.

Prerequisite: MA100