Physics 103: General Astronomy

Class Goals

1. What is science? How does it work?

Why is science different from philosophy or religion?

Why is a scientific "theory" different from a conspiracy "theory?"

2. Learn about the Scientific Method through study of Astronomy:

How do we know there are planets around other stars?

How are stars and planets born, live, and die?

What are black holes?

Where did the Universe come from and where is it going?

Are we alone in the Universe?

3. Prepare you to live in a scientific world.

"Scientists discover giant black hole. Should I be afraid?"