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Courses

Astronomy

Astronomy is the scientific study of celestial phenomena, including the solar system, stars, extra-solar planets, galaxies, and the evolution of the Universe. The Las Positas College astronomy program includes general education lecture and lab courses aimed at non-science majors. Students wishing to pursue a bachelor’s degree in astronomy or astrophysics should complete an AS in Physics, and begin their coursework in astrophysics after transferring to a four-year institution.

Astronomy Courses

ASTR 10 - Introduction to Astronomy: The Solar System

3 units

Introduction to history and physical principles of astronomy, focusing on our Solar System. Includes: constellations; distance scales; historical development of astronomy; gravitation; motion of the Earth, Moon, and Planets; astronomical tools; formation and evolution of the solar system; physical properties, atmosphere, and evolution of the Earth, Moon, and planets within the solar system; asteroids, comets, and other small bodies; discovery of extra-solar planets; possibilities for life beyond Earth. Designed for non-majors in mathematics or a physical science. A companion science lab, Astronomy 30L, is also available. 54 hours lecture. AA/AS GE. Transfer: CSU, UC; CSU GE: B1; IGETC: 5A.

  • Degree Applicable, Credit
  • Grading Option: OP

ASTR 20 - Introduction to Astronomy: Stars and the Universe

3 units

Introduction to the study of stars, galaxies, and cosmology. Includes the nature of light and matter, telescopes, spectroscopy, stellar formation and evolution, galaxies, quasars, and cosmology. Designed for non-majors in mathematics or a physical science. A companion science lab, Astronomy 30L, is also available. 54 hours lecture. AA/AS GE. Transfer: CSU, UC; CSU GE: B1; IGETC: 5A.

  • Degree Applicable, Credit
  • Grading Option: OP

ASTR 29 - Independent Study, Astronomy

0.5 - 2 units

For course information, see "Independent Studies". 27-108 hours laboratory.

  • Grading Option: GR

ASTR 30L - Introduction to Astronomy Lab

1 unit

Introduction to laboratory principles and techniques in astronomy. Includes: observational techniques such as naked eye, binocular, and telescopic identification of stars, planets, constellations, and deep sky objects; telescope operation and imaging; spectroscopy, motions of the sun, moon and planets. Prerequisite: ASTR 10 with a minimum grade of C (May be taken concurrently) or ASTR 20 minimum grade of C (May be taken concurrently). 54 hours laboratory. AA/AS GE. Transfer: CSU, UC; CSU GE: B3; IGETC: 5A.

  • Degree Applicable, Credit
  • Grading Option: OP

Independent Study

0.5 - 2 units

Independent Study courses are open to all students and employ many combinations of media and educational techniques to create individualized, self-pacing education. Check with the Counseling Center, Building 1600, concerning transferability of Independent Study courses to four-year institutions. Independent Study is contracted through an instructor for research, field experience, or skill development. Independent Study is offered under many subject areas contained in the Catalog using the number 29. Transfer: CSU; UC credit may be granted only after review of course outline by specific UC campus after transfer. Independent Study courses have a grading option of "OP" unless otherwise indicated.

  • Degree Applicable, Credit