ASTR 020 - Family of the Sun

    Recent Professors
    Eric Wegryn, Doug Epperson
    Recent Semesters
    Fall 2026, Spring 2026, Fall 2025, Spring 2025, Fall 2024
    Class Size
    32 students
    Credits
    4
    Prerequisite
    None
    Fall 2026 Sections
    View Fall 2026 sections of ASTR 020
    Transfers To
    UC and CSUCal-GETC Area 5C · Cal-GETC Area 5A · IGETC Area 5C · IGETC Area 5A · CSU GE Area B1 · CSU GE Area B3
    Description
    This is an introductory course in astronomy for the non-science major with an emphasis on the evolution, structure, and behavior of the Solar System and its contents. Topics include the study of the night sky and the motions of the objects in the heavens as seen from Earth. The motions of the celestial bodies are explained in the historical context of geocentric and heliocentric models. The origins of the solar system are explored, followed by a study of the planetary geology and planetary atmospheres including an exploration of moons, asteroids, comets, and dwarf planets. Laboratory work includes the observation and application of concepts discussed in lectures, computer simulations, planetarium simulations, and fieldwork.
    Usually Held
    Mon Wed 2:05pm–3:30pm, Mon Wed 3:40pm–5:05pm, Tue Thu 12:30pm–1:55pm, Tue Thu 2:05pm–3:30pm