ASTR 1105: The Universe - Discussion

How do we measure our galaxy and the universe? Is the universe round or
flat? How are the stars born, why do they shine, and how do they die?
What are the chemical elements, and how were they formed in stars?
What are quasars, pulsars, and black holes? How was the Solar System
formed? What are the environments of other planets like? What is the
basic structure of Earth and the other planets? Will we
catastrophically alter the Earth? Does life exist elsewhere in the
universe? How can we find out? Each student has an opportunity to make
observations with small telescopes.