Astronomy
4 courses · Las Positas College · 2026-2027 Catalog
Classes: Summer 2026 · Fall 2026
ASTR 29 Independent Study, Astronomy
- Units
- 0.5-2
- Hours
- 108 hours laboratory
- Transfers to
- CSU
For course information, see "Independent Study". 27-108 hours lab.
ASTR 30L Introduction to Astronomy Laboratory
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 hours laboratory
- Prerequisite
- ASTR 31 or ASTR 32, may be taken concurrently.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
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.
ASTR 31 Introduction to Astronomy: The Solar System
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 hours 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 for non-majors in mathematics or a physical science. A companion science lab, Astronomy 30L, is also available.
ASTR 32 Introduction to Astronomy: Stars and the Universe
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 hours 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 for non-majors in mathematics or a physical science. A companion science lab, Astronomy 30L, is also available.