Study the formation, evolution, and current state of our solar system, including the Sun, planets, moons, asteroids, and comets. Learn from NASA mission data and explore planetary geology, atmospheric science, impact hazards, global warming, and the search for life beyond Earth.

Full details for ASTRO 1102 - Our Solar System

This course explores the evolution of the universe since the Big Bang and how our understanding has developed from ancient to modern times. Topics include the changing views of the sky, the formation of black holes, dark matter and dark energy, and the origin, evolution, and fate of the universe. The course provides a nonmathematical introduction to these subjects and addresses uncertainties and unresolved questions in cosmology.

Full details for ASTRO 2201 - The History of the Universe

A quantitative exploration of planetary systems. Topics include orbital dynamics, planetary atmospheres, greenhouse effects, and smaller bodies like asteroids and comets. Includes comparisons to exoplanetary systems. More rigorous than ASTRO 1102.

Full details for ASTRO 2212 - The Solar System: Planets, Small Bodies and New Worlds

This course is primarily an introduction to special relativity with astrophysical applications. Later in the course we will also navigate the space-times around non-rotating and rotating black holes theoretically, with astrophysical applications. If time permits, gravitational radiation and cosmology will also be featured.

Full details for ASTRO 2290 - Relativity and Astrophysics

Investigate the potential for life beyond Earth, covering cosmic evolution, planetary formation, life’s origins, and astrobiology. Includes current efforts in the search for extraterrestrial life.

Full details for ASTRO 2299 - Search for Life in the Universe

Explore galaxy formation and evolution over 13+ billion years. Topics include the role of black holes, dark matter, mergers, and cosmic environments in shaping galaxies.

Full details for ASTRO 3303 - Galaxies Across Cosmic Time

Examines the production, interaction, and detection of electromagnetic radiation to interpret astrophysical phenomena.

Full details for ASTRO 4432 - Astrophysical Processes

Explores planetary physics, including orbital dynamics, tidal interactions, planetary interiors, atmospheres, and radiative transfer.

Full details for ASTRO 4434 - Physics of the Planets

Allows students to conduct independent research or study a specific area of astronomy under faculty supervision. A written report is required.

Full details for ASTRO 4940 - Independent Study in Astronomy

This course covers telescope design, optics design and instrumentation for wavelengths from optical to radio and their relation to current research needs. Adaptive optics, interferometry, aperture synthesis, and beam forming will be covered. Instrumentation discussions will include CCD and IR/submillimeter detector arrays, heterodyne systems and phased array feeds at radio wavelengths as well as camera designs, cryogenic systems, spectrographs/spectrometers and interferometric correlators. Sensitivity issues, observing techniques, polarimetry and data analysis will be discussed.

Full details for ASTRO 6525 - Multiwavelength Astronomical Techniques

Astronomers study cosmic phenomena through radiation, including electromagnetic, neutrinos, cosmic rays, and gravitational waves. This course focuses on electromagnetic radiation, exploring its production, interaction, and observation, with brief discussion of other types.

Full details for ASTRO 6530 - Astrophysical Processes

Focuses on planetary dynamics, atmospheres, and interior structure, with applications to solar system and exoplanetary science.

Full details for ASTRO 6570 - Physics of the Planets

This course explores remote sensing techniques for studying solar system surfaces and the geomorphic processes shaping them. Topics include orbital dynamics / tides, impact cratering, volcanism, tectonism, and erosion, with an emphasis on terrestrial field sites as planetary analogs. Students will also learn about surface morphology, planetary weathering, and fundamental field and remote sensing methods. Covered remote sensing techniques include visible, infrared, and radar-based imaging and topographic analysis. An optional 1-credit field trip is available (See ASTRO 6580).

Full details for ASTRO 6577 - Planetary Surface Processes

Field trip to accompany Astro 6577.

Full details for ASTRO 6580 - Planetary Surface Processes Field Trip

Guided reading and seminars on topics not currently covered in regular courses.

Full details for ASTRO 6940 - Advanced Study and Research

A reading seminar for graduate students to broaden their astronomy knowledge, practice public speaking, and analyze key findings from seminal research papers.

Full details for ASTRO 7683 - Seminar: Astronomy and Planetary Science