Introduction:
    This study group is designed for those interested in astronomy, but with no specific knowledge of physics or mathematics. It is not a course in astrophysics.
   Start by simply enjoying the stunning images and thinking about ways to consolidate such imagery. The skies have been a part of human experience since prehistory. Every known culture has had its astronomy, music, art and religion, often interwoven. 

   Start each day with a glance at the Astro Picture of the Day, from NASA, at (you need only click on the address below)

Astronomy Photo of Day

(for images from previous dates, click on Archives at the bottom of the site or go directly tol

Archive Astro Pic of Day

   The study group's Web site will evolve weekly (sometimes daily), so check this site frequently. Your interest in the various topics will determine the evolution of the course. This site will also serve as our "course pack"; in a format that can be updated as the course progresses and as new discoveries are announced. You can save or print the pages as you like. 

    It is assumed that you will be actively involved in classroom discussion of the reading and Internet material, and that you will make extensive exploration of the Internet resources. Intensive exploration on the Internet is essential. Our study group will work with materials from multiple sources:
* this site
* other interesting astronomical sites
* our textbook
* occasional direct observations of the moon and visible planets

Book:  The Rough Guide to the Universe by John Scalzi, Penguin; paperback.    ISBN 1-85828-939-4 

Syllabus/Schedule                         Spring 2008

Class 1  (22 Jan) Intro to the universe. Course logistics.

Class 2  (29 Jan)    

Class 3  (05 Feb) 

Class 4  (12 Feb) 

Class 5  (19 Feb)

Class 6  (26 Feb)

Class 7  (04 Mar)

Class 8  (11 Mar)

[Spring Break]

Class 9  (01 Apr)

Class 10 (08 Apr)

Class 11 (15 Apr)

Class 12 (22 Apr)

Optional Class 13 (29 Apr)  

Enjoy the world of astronomy! 

     Most of the links can be reached by merely clicking on their addresses. Otherwise you can simply copy-and-paste the addresses into your browser. No additional computer skills are required. (Some sites may offer short movies, which your system may be able to display; others may offer interactive "experiments" with which you can play.)

    To begin your personal exploration of the universe, enjoy the images and information on these sites (you may want to add them to the "favorites" on your browser:
1. Hubble Site. The marvelous and comprehensive site for the Hubble Telescope. Explore the gallery of images, the movie of the night sky, the pedagogical material.