Basics of Astronomy and the Solar System (2024)
An introductory course, formerly Astronomy 101.
Now free to AAA members.
Tuesdays – Sept. 10, 17, 24; Oct. 1, 15, 22 – 7-9 PM via Zoom
This course introduces astronomy within the solar system, from heliocentric theories to the current interplanetary missions. This includes a survey of celestial objects and events of the solar system, many of which were known to the ancients, and their modern explanations. We’ll discuss motions of planetary bodies, seasons, the Zodiac and other constellations, navigation, and exploration of our star system.
This course meets online using Zoom video conferencing, with files shared on google-classroom (“GC”) . A computer, tablet, or smart phone is required. No special downloads and no purchase of any apps are required. Zoom access is free for attendees. Access information will be shared with registered Members.
September 10 – Our Place in Space
What can we deduce about the local universe by simply looking up? Consider the apparent motions of other solar system objects, mapping the sky, and our use of celestial motion for time-keeping; celestial sphere, the ecliptic, zodiacal constellations and others.
September 17 – Some History and Physics of Planetary Motion
The theories of planetary motion, Keller’s Laws of planetary motion, Newton’s Law of Gravitation, conics, and parallax.
September 24 – Seasons & Scales of the Solar System
What is the reason for Earth’s seasons? Axial tilt, the solar constant and Earth’s energy budget, precession, solstices and equinoxes. An overview of the contents of the solar system and relative sizes and distances for the planets.
October 1 – The Sun & the Moon
A tour through the Moon’s phases, discussion of its formation and features, basics of solar observing; eclipses, transits, tides, lunar features, solar features.
Oct. 8 – NO CLASS. Being a second Tuesday of the month there will be a regular AAA monthly lecture. Look for it at AAA.org/lectures
October 15 – Other Worlds of the Solar System
Comparing terrestrial planets and the giant planets; densities, atmospheres, satellites, rings, frost line, minor bodies.
October 22 – Exploration
Where are we heading next in the solar system? A survey of current and upcoming missions, what we’ve learned and what we’re looking for. Missions include Voyager, BepiColombo, Parker, Lucy, and Europa Clipper.
Register using this link… free for AAA members.
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwvcOqgrjwrGNK6f-mu9zPaUKJziLPGFNEg
You will be given in class the link to the GC (Google Classroom). It’s used for class materials, communicating with the instructor and classmates, and getting the Zoom link to enter each class after 6:45 PM .
Click on the GC link immediately to be on the class roster. Recording: The day after a class ends its Zoom recording link is provided to class members on this GC page.
Not a member? Join AAA for $40, less than the fee for this course. You’ll benefit from
this free course and all AAA events while supporting astronomy education in NYC.
Join AAA at https://aaa.org/join/
Do you have relatives and friends that ought to know of this class? Forward this or suggest they visit AAA.org/classes to consider it. They will thank you for doing so, as does the AAA for helping to support our events.
