This course presents a survey of astronomy that includes a study of the physical nature of the universe, the solar system, stars, nebulae and galaxies. The laboratory includes sky observations for collection and analysis of data, photographic analysis and laboratory experiments.

If you do well in this course, you will be able to:

• 1) become acquainted with the various objects in the sky, their origins, and how they are studied,

  2) learn what causes astronomical phenomena (seasons, eclipses, etc.),

  3) gain an understanding of the role of the Scientific Method in the evolution of astronomy as the first science,

  4)  formulate an hypothesis and use the resources of the internet to researchand gather information about the topic,

  5) describe the way science progresses from observation and classification of phenomena through model building to the development of comprehensive theories that can explain and predict and that can be tested by experiment,

  6) apply the methods and procedures of science through elementary laboratory exercises and observation and analyze simple experiments and discuss whether they support or confront a theoretical prediction,

  7) effectively communicate the results of independent research and laboratory.

The required textbook and optional materials for this course are:

1) Explorations: An Introduction to Astronomy, by T. Arny, MGraw-Hill, 2008, 5/e

2) The Universe, History Channel CD set, (optional, purchase on your own) 

There are 2 exams in this course. You are expected to take your examinations at one of the NVCC campus Testing Centers. Be sure to allow enough time to complete your exam before the Testing Center closes; Testing Centers have specific policies relating to the administration of ELI exams. You will need to take a photo ID, your NovaConnect empl ID number, and the appropriate Exam Pass when you go to the Testing Center.  

For Testing Center locations, hours of operation and policies, click here.

For information on taking exams outside of the metropolitan area, click here.

I am here to help you succeed in this course. Occasionally questions or problems may arise. Here is how to contact me when they do:

E-mail : rgottfried@nvcc.edu
Telephone : (301) 846-2581
You may also call me to schedule a meeting in person, either at ELI or my campus office in Annandale. 

1. Use your web browser to connect to http://www.nvcc.edu/bbstart. Follow the directions to determine your email, Blackboard and VIVA account user names and passwords.
2. Access your email account and make sure you know how to use it; you will be required to use this account for all course-related email.
3. Log on to Blackboard and email at http://nvcc.my.vccs.edu.
4. Click on this course under "My Courses." Review the entire course to make sure you understand what will be required of you. Then start completing the assignments.

Please note that account generation takes approximately one week from the time of your paid registration. If you cannot log on after one week, contact the IT Help Desk. If you can log on to Blackboard, but your course isn't listed, please contact ELI or your instructor.