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Astronomy 170B1

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Procedures and grading policies

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How did astronomy get started?

The story of our gaining an understanding of the planetary motions now begins. It allows us to examine how science works, in slow motion (about 15 centuries worth).

Science has built an understanding of nature and along with it, the tools to observe the Universe.

How does the sun compare with other stars? What happens as stars get older?

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Each planet in our solar system has unique properties that provide clues to the formation of the system

We learn more about the solar system from its smaller members.

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Galaxies have a broad variety of characteristics, including cores containing supermassive black holes that produce dramatic activity.

Cosmology: the Structure and Evolution of the Universe

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Are we alone?