Astronomy
11 courses · Mt. San Antonio College · 2026-2027 Catalog
Classes: Fall 2026 · Winter 2027
ASTR 5 Introduction to Astronomy
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- Lecture: 54
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
An introductory, non-technical survey of the universe. Fundamental concepts and facts of astronomy. Topics include the origin and evolution of planets, stars, and galaxies; results of space exploration and modern cosmology. Enroll in ASTR 5L to receive laboratory science credit. A field trip is required.
ASTR 5H Introduction to Astronomy - Honors
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- Lecture: 54
- Prerequisite
- Acceptance into the Honors Program
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
An honors course designed to provide an enriched experience. An introductory, non-technical survey of the universe. Fundamental concepts and facts of astronomy. Topics include the origin and evolution of planets, stars, and galaxies; results of space exploration and modern cosmology. Enroll in ASTR 5L to receive laboratory science credit. A field trip required. Students may not receive credit for both ASTR 5H and ASTR 5.
ASTR 5L Astronomical Observing Laboratory
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- Lab: 54
- Corequisite
- ASTR 5 or ASTR 5H or ASTR 7 or ASTR 8 (May have been taken previously)
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Practical experience in astronomy including use of telescopes and demonstrations in the college planetarium. Field trip or evening instructor lead observing sessions with the telescopes are required.
ASTR 7 Geology of the Solar System
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- Lecture: 54
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Geological features and evolution in the solar system. Course surveys techniques used to study cratering, tectonic and volcanic activity, weathering, landsliding, erosion, and faulting. Emphasis on solid surfaces other than Earth. Enroll in ASTR 5L to receive lab science credit. Field trips required.
ASTR 8 Introduction to Stars, Galaxies, and the Universe
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- Lecture: 54
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Survey of current astronomical models, structure and evolution of stars, galaxies, and the universe. Field trip(s) required. Enroll in ASTR 5L to receive lab science credit.
ASTR 11 Introduction to Astrophysics
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- Lecture: 54
- Prerequisite
- PHYS 2AG
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Quantitative introduction to astrophysics. Topics include: Kepler's Laws, radiation, stars, stellar evolution, the Milky Way and other galaxies, cosmology, and exoplanets.
ASTR 99 Special Projects in Astronomy
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- Lab: 108
- Advisory
- Instructor approval and approved Independent Study Learning Contract.
- Transfers to
- CSU
Offers students recognition for their academic interests and ability and the opportunity to explore Astronomy in greater depth. The content of each course and the methods of study vary from semester to semester and depend on the particular project under consideration. Student must have instructor's authorization before enrolling in this class.
ASTR 99A Special Projects in Astronomy - Telescope Research
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- Lab: 108
- Prerequisite
- Instructor Authorization and Approved Independent Study Learning Contract
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course is designed to give students an authentic research experience to help them make long-term career decisions. Students will learn how to operate a telescope properly, take research quality data, process it using astronomy research software, write a professional research paper or poster and present their research. Students will also learn specialized concepts and skills that can help them transfer to an astronomy internship program. Students must regularly attend telescope lab until midnight.
ASTR 99B Special Projects in Astronomy - Astrophotography
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- Lab: 108
- Prerequisite
- Instructor Authorization and Approved Independent Study Learning Contract
- Transfers to
- CSU
Correctly setup and align a telescope as well as use of a camera to take pictures of the night sky. Techniques in camera settings, filters, stacking, and software processing to get the most of their images. This course includes several overnight field trips to dark sky areas where better images can be taken of the night sky.
ASTR 99C Special Projects in Astronomy - Planetarium
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- Lab: 108
- Prerequisite
- Instructor Authorization and Approved Independent Study Learning Contract
- Transfers to
- CSU
Operate and present a planetarium show focusing on presentation planning, public speaking and presenting skills, and technical programming.
ASTR 99D Special Projects in Astronomy - Research
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- Lab: 108
- Prerequisite
- Instructor Authorization and Approved Independent Study Learning Contract
- Transfers to
- CSU
Offers select students opportunities to explore astronomy in greater depth. The content of the course and the methods of study vary from semester to semester and depend on the particular project under consideration. This course is designed for students doing research outside of the college through an internship or other research program. Instructor authorization needed prior to enrollment.