Course Description
Discussion of the historical development of key astronomical ideas from ancient times to the modern age.
Athena Title
HISTORY OF ASTRON
Semester Course Offered
Offered fall
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
To give the students an overview about the development of astronomy from its earliest beginnings to today's modern science. The influence of important astronomical events, e.g., the appearances of comets and supernovae, as well as important astronomers will be discussed, giving the students an understanding of the historical role of astronomy in society.
Topical Outline
Ancient astronomy, development of key astronomical ideas in antiquity and the Renaissance, important historic astronomers, historically important astronomical events (comets, supernovae). A. Pannekoek: A HISTORY OF ASTRONOMY, J.L.E. Dreyer: A HISTORY OF ASTRONOMY FROM THALES TO KEPLER
General Education Core
CORE II: Physical SciencesSyllabus