GETTYSBURG COLLEGE: SPRING 2003

CLASS SYLLABUS

Introduction

 Stellar astrophysics is the study of the physical makeup and evolutionary history of the stars.  It is based on observational evidence gathered with telescopes of various sorts that collect electromagnetic radiation from distant objects.   In this semester we will spend a bit of time acquainting ourselves with the conventions of modern astronomy, and then will investigate the modern ideas of how universal processes--primarily gravity and nuclear interactions----govern the behavior and history of the stars.   We will rely heavily on our knowledge of the fundamental laws of physics, and try to connect what we know about the stars with the observational evidence that we use to derive that knowledge. 
 

How to use this syllabus

The  Modern Astrophysics  classes meet from 8:00-8:50  AM  Monday, Wednesday, and Friday in the seminar room, Masters 202, Masters Hall. You are expected to attend all  class sessions,  and to let me know about unavoidable absences.   Don't hold up the class by being late--it's early, I know, but we all have to adjust.  You should find the attendance requirement more helpful than burdensome, however. Astronomy is rapidly changing field, with news breaking daily, and you will therefore find that many details presented in the lectures will not be found in the text. Keep your notes carefully, with a mind to using them as a prime study guide for the course. Indeed you will want to take notes from the readings before each class meets. Suggestion: prepare a rough outline of topics that should come up in class, so that you can better follow the lectures and so that you can anticipate what questions you might like to have answered in class.   Don't  just read the posted outlines on the web (though that's a good idea, too).  Rather, make up your own notes based on readings and outlines. 

The lectures will presuppose that you have done this reading. Insofar as is possible, the lectures will explain and elaborate on the reading assignments, not simply rehash them. Please ask questions during and after class to make sure you've got your notes clear and that important points are covered. If you don't have time after class, come by and see your instructor in his or her office. 

All assignments are from Dale A. Ostlie and Bradley W. Carroll MODERN STELLAR ASTROPHYSICS. Classes on which there will be in-class quizzes are marked on the syllabus below. 

Be sure to save this syllabus (and the other handouts), for reference throughout the term.