OSHER 459 - Marvels and Mysteries of Our Universe

Take a grand tour of the known universe including the latest discoveries. Topics include: The Solar System: Our Cosmic Backyard; All About Stars: One Star, Two Star, Red Star, Blue Star; The Milky Way: Our Galactic Neighborhood; Tools of the Trade: Planispheres, Star Charts, Binoculars, Telescopes; Galaxies: Island Universes; and Mysterious Universe: A Discussion on Current Questions and Issues. Prepare to be amazed by the interesting, strange, unbelievable, and thought provoking. To enhance the classroom learning, there will be one evening Star Party where we will look through binoculars and telescopes at some of the objects discussed in class. No background in astronomy or math is needed, just an inquiring mind and a desire to have some fun.