Astronomy
4 courses · Chabot College · 2026-2027 Catalog
Classes: Summer 2026 · Fall 2026
ASTR 10 Introduction to Astronomy: The Solar System
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 Lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
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 to be accessible to students in all majors. A companion science lab, Astronomy 30, is also available.
ASTR 20 Introduction to Astronomy: Stars and the Universe
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 Lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
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 to be accessible to students in all majors. A companion science lab, Astronomy 30, is also available.
ASTR 30 Introduction to Astronomy Lab
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 Lab
- Prerequisite
- ASTR 10 May be taken concurrently, ASTR 20 may be taken concurrently
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Introduction to laboratory principles and techniques in astronomy. Includes operation of local and/or remote robotic telescopes, calculation of angular sizes, spectroscopy, lunar phases, eclipses, computer simulations, digital image analysis and processing, motions of the sun, moon, and planets, and identification of constellations and stars in the seasonal night skies.
ASTR 45 Descriptive Astronomy
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 Lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU
Survey of Astronomy at a descriptive level, focusing on current topics of interest including exploration of the planets, black holes, detection of extra-solar planets, search for intelligent life in the universe, astronomy in film and literature, as well as identification of seasonal constellations. Designed for non-majors in mathematics or a physical science.