PH 107 Astronomy: Solar System

1. Analyze the special relationship that the major and minor members of the solar system have to the sun and then discuss how this relationship varies from object to object.
2. Distinguish between the various ways distances in the solar system are represented and compare this to the way distances are expressed within the Milky Way Galaxy.
3. Evaluate the current model for the origin of the Solar System and compare it to earlier models. Using the scientific method, evaluate the merit of each model.
4. Discuss how current deep space observations are now locating new solar systems around neighboring stars.
5. Compare the physical properties of the planets and contrast it with the physical properties of earth.
6. Discuss the physical laws governing the motions of the planets and their satellites relative to the sun.
7. Compare the apparent motions of the planets, moon, and stars as seen from earth with their motions as seen from outer space.
8. Discuss how the use of space-probes and orbiting telescopes has improved our interpretation of the physical properties of various members of the solar system, including earth.
9. Collect and interpret scientific information from experiments and observations in order to generate results and further questions.
10. Use the planetarium to locate the current positions of the planets and simulate their motions through the sky, along with the sun and moon.

Statewide General Education Outcomes:

1. Gather, comprehend, and communicate scientific and technical information to explore ideas, models, and solutions and generate further questions.
2. Apply scientific and technical modes of inquiry, individually, and collaboratively, to critically evaluate existing or alternative explanations, solve problems, and make evidence-based decisions in an ethical manner.
3. Assess the strengths and weaknesses of scientific studies and critically examine the influence of scientific and technical knowledge on human society and the environment.

• Astronomy
  • Definition
  • Scientific method
  • Contemporary view of the universe
• Earth as a Planet
  • View of universe from earth
  • The celestial sphere
• Historical Development in Astronomy
  • Greek View of the Universe
  • Kepler’s and Newton’s Planetarium Laws
    • How does gravity work and what factors affect its’ strength according to Newton.
    • How does distance and the size of an object orbiting the sun affect its’ motion?
    • Collect data on the synodic periods of the planets and using planetary motion laws, determine the sidereal periods of the planets. Compare answers to accepted value and evaluate the results.
    • Using the scientific method, list the merit of each model of planetary formation.
    • List the observations of the planets that give preference to the current model of planetary formation.
  • Einstein Universe
• Mercury
  • Size and distance
  • Evolution as a planet
  • Atmosphere
  • What is the astronomical unit, and how many kilometers does it represent. 
  • What is a light year and can they be used within the scale of the Solar System
• Venus
  • Physical properties
  • Evolution as a planet
  • Atmosphere
• Earth
  • Physical properties
  • Evolution as a planet
  • Atmosphere
• Moon
  • Physical properties
  • Research and space probes
  • Evolution
  • Synodic vs. sidereal month
• Mars and Jupiter
  • Similarities and differences
  • Evolution
  • Research and space probes
  • Motions and the planets seen from earth vs. out-space
• Saturn and the Rest of the Solar System
  • Similarities and differences
  • Evolution
  • Research and space probes
• Minor Members
  • Comets
  • Meteors and meteorites