AST 160 : Special Topics in Astronomy
This course covers topics in astronomy not normally covered in AST 111 and AST 112. Topics may include: current events and discoveries in astronomy, the early history of the universe, general and special relativity, foundations of quantum mechanics, multiverse and multiple-dimension theories, astrobiology and the search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI) as well as others. Prerequisite: Completion of AST 111 or AST 112 with a grade of C- or better. One to three lecture hours per week.
Course Outcomes
- Define and discuss terms and concepts used in contemporary astronomy and physics.
- Describe and discuss leading theories on the nature of the universe and its evolution.
- Explain the methods of scientific inquiry and its benefits.
- Explain the philosophical and cultural implications of scientific discoveries towards understanding the universe and our place in it.
- Describe and explain some of the major experiments and technological applications of leading theories of physics and cosmology.