Astronomy
11 courses · Orange Coast College · 2026-2027 Catalog
Classes: Fall 2026 · Spring 2027
ASTR A100 Introduction to Astronomy
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 lecture hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC (with credit limitation)
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. Enrollment Limitation: ASTR A100H; students who complete ASTR A100 may not enroll in or receive credit for ASTR A100H.
ASTR A100H Introduction to Astronomy Honors
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 lecture hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC (with credit limitation)
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. Enrollment Limitation: ASTR A100; students who complete ASTR A100H may not enroll in or receive credit for ASTR A100.
ASTR A100L Introduction to Astronomy Laboratory
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Prerequisite
- ASTR A100, ASTR A100H, ASTR A101, ASTR A102, ASTR A103 or ASTR A104, or concurrent enrollment.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
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. Enrollment Limitation: ASTR A100M; students who complete ASTR A100L may not enroll in or receive credit for ASTR A100M.
ASTR A100M Introduction to Astronomy Laboratory Honors
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Prerequisite
- ASTR A100, ASTR A100H, ASTR A101, ASTR A102, ASTR A103 or ASTR A104, or concurrent enrollment.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
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. Enrollment Limitation: ASTR A100L; students who complete ASTR A100M may not enroll in or receive credit for ASTR A100L.
ASTR A101 Planetary Astronomy
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 lecture hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
An introduction to the solar system. The formation and properties of planets and their satellites, dwarf planets, and other minor bodies will be examined. Insights from interplanetary missions, the discovery of extrasolar planets, and the search extraterrestrial life will be discussed.
ASTR A102 Stellar Astronomy
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 lecture hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
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.
ASTR A103 Cosmology
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 lecture hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
An introduction to the origin and evolution of the cosmos. Application of modern physics concepts, including quantum mechanics and the theory of relativity, to describe the history and ultimate fate of the Universe. Observational evidence for the expanding Universe, dark matter, dark energy, and the Big Bang.
ASTR A104 Galactic Astronomy
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 lecture hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
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.
ASTR A110 Observational Astronomy
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 18 lecture hours; 54 lab hours
- Advisory
- ASTR A100 or ASTR A100H.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
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.
ASTR A200 Introduction to Astrophysics
- Units
- 4
- Hours
- 72 lecture hours
- Prerequisite
- PHYS A185 or PHYS A185H.
- Advisory
- PHYS A285.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
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. Enrollment Limitation: ASTR A200H; students who complete ASTR A200 may not enroll in or receive credit for ASTR A200H.
ASTR A200H Introduction to Astrophysics Honors
- Units
- 4
- Hours
- 72 lecture hours
- Prerequisite
- PHYS A185 or PHYS A185H.
- Advisory
- PHYS A285.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
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. Enrollment Limitation: ASTR A200; students who complete ASTR A200H may not enroll in or receive credit for ASTR A200.