Astronomy
The Astronomy department provides students the opportunity to gain a better perspective about the night sky, the solar system, stars, galaxies and the universe. We offer a wide range of courses as well as an Associate in Science degree in Astronomy. Many of our students go on and transfer to four-year programs in astronomy, astrophysics, or physics, and then continue on to graduate school.
Department Contact Information
Jerome Fang
jfang5@occ.cccd.edu
Credit Courses
Grading Mode: Standard Letter, Pass/No Pass
Introduction to the origin, evolution and structure of the solar system, stars, galaxies and the Universe. Milestones in the science of astronomy from ancient times to the space age. Historical development of astronomical ideas leading to current models. Special focus on the latest discoveries from both ground- and space-based instruments. Consideration of current controversies in astronomy and the future of astronomical research. May be taken for grades or on a pass-no pass basis. Lecture.
Grading Mode: Standard Letter, Pass/No Pass
Introduction to the origin, evolution and structure of the solar system, stars, galaxies and the universe. Milestones in the science of astronomy from ancient times to the space age. Historical development of astronomical ideas leading to current models. Special focus on the latest discoveries from both ground- and space-based instruments. Consideration of current controversies in astronomy and the future of astronomical research. May be taken for grades or on a pass-no pass basis. Lecture.
Grading Mode: Standard Letter, Pass/No Pass
A laboratory course designed for non-science majors. It will provide practical experience with the scientific method through outdoor astronomical observations and indoor analysis of experimental data. May be taken for grades or on a pass-no pass basis. Lab.
Grading Mode: Standard Letter, Pass/No Pass
A laboratory course designed for non-science majors. It will provide practical experience with the scientific method through outdoor astronomical observations and indoor analysis of experimental data. May be taken for grades or on a pass-no pass basis.
Grading Mode: Standard Letter, Pass/No Pass
An introduction to the current solar system. A comparative study will be made of the planets and their satellites, dwarf planets, asteroids, and interplanetary debris. An overview of the formation, evolution and structure of the solar nebula will be presented. Current topics on interplanetary missions, extrasolar planets, and extraterrestrial life will be discussed. May be taken for grades or on a pass-no pass basis. Lecture.
Grading Mode: Standard Letter, Pass/No Pass
A detailed study of the formation, structure, and evolution of the sun and stars, including an overview of binary systems, variable stars, supernovae, white dwarfs, neutron stars, black holes, and other stellar phenomena. A survey of particle physics and special and general relativity will also be included. May be taken for grades or on a pass-no pass basis. Lecture.
Grading Mode: Standard Letter, Pass/No Pass
An introduction to the origin and evolution of the Universe with emphasis on the cosmological models. Types of galaxies and their distribution in the universe, gravitational lensing, dark matter, and dark energy will be examined. An overview of particle physics and special and general relativity will be included. May be taken for grades or on a pass-no pass basis. Lecture.
Grading Mode: Standard Letter, Pass/No Pass
An overview of the origin, structure, and dynamical nature of the Milky Way. An emphasis on the different types of galaxies and their evolution through time. Observational techniques used to study galaxies and the evidence for supermassive black holes, quasars, and dark matter. May be taken for grades or on a pass/no-pass basis. Lecture.
Grading Mode: Standard Letter, Pass/No Pass
An introduction to the methods and techniques of observational astronomy, telescope principles, and operations as applied to public viewing of astronomical phenomena. This course is designed for students to operate the telescopes and assist the public in observing objects in the night sky. May include field trips to nearby observatories, planetaria, and public science facilities. May be taken for grades or on a pass-no pass basis.
Grading Mode: Standard Letter
An introduction to astrophysics for science students. Emphasis on applying physical principles to gain a quantitative understanding of astrophysical phenomena. Topics covered include celestial mechanics; electromagnetic radiation; spectroscopy; stellar structure, evolution, and remnants; galaxies; and cosmology. Transfer Status: CSU, UC.
Grading Mode: Standard Letter
An introduction to astrophysics for science students. Emphasis on applying physical principles to gain a quantitative understanding of astrophysical phenomena. Topics covered include celestial mechanics; electromagnetic radiation; spectroscopy; stellar structure, evolution, and remnants; galaxies; and cosmology.