This course will focus on exoplanets and the stellar systems they inhabit. Topics include exoplanet demographics, techniques of discovery and characterization, models of formation and evolution, and potential for future telescopes to uncover signs of atmospheric chemistry and habitability. Students will practice application of physical principles, build data analysis skills, and be introduced to astronomical literature. Students will also make exoplanet transit observations with our on-campus telescope and will model the resulting light curve to ascertain properties of a real exoplanetary system.

Units: 1

Max Enrollment: 16

Prerequisites: ASTR 107; or ASTR 100 with permission of the instructor.

Instructor: McLeod

Distribution Requirements: MM - Mathematical Modeling and Problem Solving; NPS - Natural and Physical Sciences

Degree Requirements: DL - Data Literacy (Formerly QRF); DL - Data Literacy (Formerly QRDL)

Typical Periods Offered: Every other year

Semesters Offered this Academic Year: Spring

Notes: