Winter 07/Spring 08 Course Descriptions

All courses below are approved to be taught in Winter 2007 and Spring 2008; however, some (or all) may not be offered in either term.  The courses that are offered in Spring link to the Schedule of Classes.  Classes with alternative delivery modes (Web based, cable TV, correspondence, etc) are noted in the Schedule at the section level.  The complete list below is a good indicator of what may be offered over the next few years (contact department about offerings).  For explanations of course elements see the Key to Course Descriptions.

Astronomy (ASTR)  Department Info

ASTR 191 -- Preceptorship  (1-5 units)
Description:  Preceptors assist as part of a teaching team with the professor and graduate teaching assistant.
Grading:  Alternative grades are awarded for this course: S P C D E.
May be repeated:  for a total of 5 units of credit.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

ASTR 199 -- Independent Study  (1-3 units)
Description:  Qualified students working on an individual basis with professors who have agreed to supervise such work.
Grading:  Alternative grades are awarded for this course: S P C D E.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

ASTR 201 -- Cosmology  (3 units)
Description:  Extragalactic astronomy and cosmology are among the fastest developing fields in astronomy. This course presents cosmology as a modern, quantitative science. It describes what we know about galaxies, the large scale structure of the universe and the beginnings and evolution of the Universe. We know quite a bit, assume a lot and have a great deal to learn. The course critically examines our picture of the universe using lectures, a hands-on project, and discussion groups.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  two courses from Tier One, Natural Sciences (NATS 101, 102, 104).
Approved as:  General Education Tier Two - Natural Sciences.
Usually offered:  Fall.

ASTR 202 -- Life in the Universe  (3 units)
Description:  The main goal for students in this course is to have fun learning about the possibilities for life in the Universe and, in the process, gain an appreciation for the methods used in science. To achieve this goal, we will study such seemingly diverse topics as the origin of the Universe, heavy element production, the formation of stars and planets, the nature of planets and their atmospheres, basic chemistry, geological and atmospheric evolution, biological evolution, cultural and technological evolution, interstellar travel, and communication techniques.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  two courses from Tier One, Natural Sciences (NATS 101, 102, 104).
Approved as:  General Education Tier Two - Natural Sciences.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

ASTR 203 -- Stars  (3 units)
Description:  This course, intended for non-science majors, provides an in-depth and comprehensive study of the stars. Topics to be covered may include: the naming of stars and constellations, the classification and properties of stars, star formation and evolution, nuclear fusion, black holes, Einstein's theories of relativity, and the demographics of the stars in our Galaxy. The basic principles of physics which are needed to understand the stars (e.g. gravity, light, structure of the atom) will also be reviewed.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  NATS 101, NATS 102.
Approved as:  General Education Tier Two - Natural Sciences.
Usually offered:  Fall.

ASTR 204 -- Great Debates in Astronomy  (3 units)
Description:  This course examines questions such as: How old is the Universe? Where did the Moon come from? and Should astronauts or robots explore space? Students will study the methods and personalities behind key discoveries, participate in classroom debates, and argue their positions in detailed essays.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Approved as:  General Education Tier Two - Natural Sciences.
Usually offered:  Fall.

ASTR 206 -- Our Golden Age of Planetary Exploration  (3 units)
Description:  We will review current understanding of the contents of our Solar System and emphasize the processes that unite all of the planets and smaller bodies, such as tectonics, weathering, cratering, differentiation, and the evolution of oceans and atmospheres. The course will build on this knowledge to understand humankind's motivation to explore beyond our Solar System, especially to search for planets around distant stars and to look or listen for evidence of life elsewhere in the Universe.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  two courses from Tier One, Natural Sciences (NATS 101, 102, 104).
Approved as:  General Education Tier Two - Natural Sciences.
Identical to:  PTYS 206; PTYS is home department.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

ASTR 214 -- Astrobiology : A Planetary Prospective  (3 units)
Description:  We will explore questions about the origin, evolution, and future of life on Earth and the possibility of life arising independently elsewhere in the Universe. We will examine what it means for a planet to be habitable, both in terms of basic necessities for living organisms to function and environmental limits to their ability to survive. Finally, we will review different approaches for searching for life within the Solar System and beyond using direct and remote sensing techniques.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Approved as:  General Education Tier Two - Natural Sciences.
Identical to:  PTYS 214; PTYS is home department.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

ASTR 245 -- Contemporary Space Science and Astronomy  (3 units)
Temporary course:  offered during Spring 2008 only.
Description:  Contemporary trends and issues including current events in the night sky, recent planetary exploration by space probes, and virtual astronomical observing with an emphasis on popular topics in the news media for education major.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  Declared elementary or secondary education, or pre-education major or by consent of instructor.
May be repeated:  for credit 2 times (maximum 3 enrollments).

ASTR 250 -- Fundamentals of Astronomy  (3 units)
Description:  An introductory course in astronomy and astrophysics, aimed mainly at freshman astronomy majors and science majors from other departments. The class covers most aspects of astronomy, including stars, galaxies, cosmology and the solar system, but with a more mathematical treatment than in the 100-level Natural Science classes. The course also emphasizes hands-on activities using astronomical observations and scientific models, and applying mathematical and physical principles to astronomical problems.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  MATH 124 or 125; PHYS 141 or PHYS 151.
Usually offered:  Spring.

ASTR 296A -- Topics in Astronomical Research  (1 unit)
Description:  The development and exchange of scholarly information, usually in a small group setting. The scope of work shall consist of research by course registrants, with the exchange of the results of such research through discussion, reports, and/or papers.
Grading:  Regular or alternative grades can be awarded for this course: A B C D E or S P C D E.
Special exam:  course may be taken by special exam for credit and grade.
Usually offered:  Spring.

ASTR 299 -- Independent Study  (1-3 units)
Description:  Qualified students working on an individual basis with professors who have agreed to supervise such work.
Grading:  Alternative grades are awarded for this course: S P C D E.
May be repeated:  an unlimited number of times, consult your department for details and possible restrictions.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

ASTR 299H -- Honors Independent Study  (1-3 units)
Description:  Qualified students working on an individual basis with professors who have agreed to supervise such work.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
May be repeated:  an unlimited number of times, consult your department for details and possible restrictions.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

ASTR 300A -- Astronomy and Astrophysics  (3 units)
Description:  A quantitative approach to astronomy and astrophysics.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  MATH 254; one of: PHYS 241 & 242, or PHYS 251 & 252, or PHYS 261H & 262H; PHYS 321.
Usually offered:  Fall.

ASTR 300B -- Astronomy and Astrophysics  (3 units)
Description:  A quantitative approach to astronomy and astrophysics.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  ASTR 300A and PHYS 331. Student must consult instructor prior to enrolling.
Usually offered:  Spring.

ASTR 302 -- Introduction to Observational Astronomy  (3 units)
Description:  Optical and radio detectors; observing preparation, data acquisition and reduction, data analysis. Observing at optical and radio wavelengths. Astrophysical applications of radio data and optical imaging. Computer software and computer-code writing to reduce astronomical data and to solve astronomical problems. Out-of-class telescope sessions are required.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  PHYS 152 or PHYS 142; MATH 125.
Typical structure:  2 hours lecture, 3 hours laboratory.
Usually offered:  Spring.

ASTR 305 -- Computational Physics  (3 units)
Description:  Introduction to numerical techniques for solving physics problems. Includes introduction to programming. Sample problems will be drawn from material covered in the introductory physics sequence.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  PHYS 142 or PHYS 143 or PHYS 152.
Identical to:  PHYS 305; PHYS is home department.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

ASTR 320 -- Philosophy and History of Astronomical Thought  (3 units)
Description:  Historical development of astronomical concepts and the scientific method; cosmological concepts from ancient times to the present; controversies in astronomy in the recent past and at present.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Usually offered:  Spring.

ASTR 345 -- Cultural Astronomy  (3 units)
Description:  Cultural astronomy is an interdisciplinary field bridging anthropology, astronomy, and history. In this course we will focus on the astronomy of various people within their cultural context. We will explore some of the many ways that astronomy arises within cultures in comparison to our own culture. We will consider definitions of science and astronomy, and issues of efficacy, accuracy, and functionality. This course includes mathematics, essay writing, and oral presentations. Each time the course is taught the regional focus will change: Africa, Pacific, Europe, Asia. Course is repeatable with consent of instructor only.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Typical structure:  1 hour lecture, 3 hours laboratory, 1 hour discussion.
May be repeated:  for credit 3 times (maximum 4 enrollments).
Identical to:  ANTH 345.
Usually offered:  Spring.

ASTR 392 -- Directed Research  (1-6 units)
Description:  Individual or small group research under the guidance of faculty. This course will allow students to complete 3 units of independent research and receive a letter grade to be calculated in the GPA.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
May be repeated:  for a total of 12 units of credit.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

ASTR 396H -- Honors Proseminar  (3 units)
Description:  Honors proseminar offered every third semester.
Grading:  Regular or alternative grades can be awarded for this course: A B C D E or S P C D E.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

ASTR 399 -- Independent Study  (1-3 units)
Description:  Qualified students working on an individual basis with professors who have agreed to supervise such work.
Grading:  Alternative grades are awarded for this course: S P C D E.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

ASTR 399H -- Honors Independent Study  (1-3 units)
Description:  Qualified students working on an individual basis with professors who have agreed to supervise such work.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
May be repeated:  an unlimited number of times, consult your department for details and possible restrictions.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

ASTR 400A -- Theoretical Astrophysics  (3 units)
Description:  Stars, interstellar matter, galaxies, radio sources, cosmology.  This is a Writing Emphasis Course.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  satisfaction of the Mid-Career Writing Assessment (MCWA) or the former upper-division writing proficiency requirement (UDWPE); MATH 254, 12 units of upper-division physics.
Usually offered:  Fall.

ASTR 400B -- Theoretical Astrophysics  (3 units)
Description:  Stars, interstellar matter, galaxies, radio sources, cosmology.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  MATH 254, 12 units upper-division physics.
Usually offered:  Spring.

ASTR 403 -- Physics of the Solar System  (3 units)
Description:  Survey of planetary physics, planetary motions, planetary interiors, geophysics, planetary atmospheres, asteroids, comets, origin of the solar system.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  PHYS 142 or PHYS 251.
Identical to:  PTYS 403; PTYS is home department.
May be convened with:  ASTR 503.
Usually offered:  Spring.

ASTR 407 -- Astrobiology  (3 units)
Description:  Astrobiology is the study of the origin, evolution, distribution, and destiny of life in the universe. It is an interdisciplinary science at the intersection of physics, astronomy, biology, geology, and mathematics, asking where and under what conditions life can arise and exist in the Universe. The course will cover the discovery of planetary systems around other stars, the nature of habitable zones around distant stars, and the existence of life in extreme environments on Earth (including the hydrothermal ecosystems of Yellowstone National Park and the cryogenic ecosystems of Antarctica). The course is appropriate for middle and high school teachers with a minimum of one year teaching experience.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  6 semester units of biological/life sciences.
Identical to:  ECOL 407.
May be convened with:  ASTR 507.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

ASTR 418 -- Modern Astronomical Instrumentation and Techniques  (3 units)
Description:  Radiant energy; signals and noise; detectors and techniques for imaging, photometry, polarimetry and spectroscopy. Examples from stellar and planetary astronomy in the x-ray, optical, infrared and radio.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E. Available to qualified students for Pass/Fail Option.
Identical to:  PTYS 418.
May be convened with:  ASTR 518.
Usually offered:  Fall.

ASTR 439 -- Methods of Teaching Space Sciences  (3 units)
Description:  Planning and assessment in space science teaching, identification and correction of student misconceptions, management of classroom discourse, and use of technology for data collection and analysis.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  or Concurrent registration, STCH 410. STCH 250, STCH 310. Must have completed 18 units of science courses. Must complete STCH 410 or STCH 420, or consent of instructor.
May be convened with:  ASTR 539.
Usually offered:  Fall.

ASTR 442 -- Mars  (3 units)
Description:  In-depth class about the planet Mars, including origin and evolution, geophysics, geology, atmospheric science, climate change, the search for life, and the history and future of Mars exploration. There will be guest lectures from professors and research scientists with expertise about aspects of Mars. The course will include visits to Mars exploration centers at the University of Arizona and Arizona State University, including the operations center for the Gamma Ray Spectrometer on the Mars Odyssey spacecraft, currently orbiting Mars, and an all-day trip to the Mars Space Flight Facility at Arizona State University, operations center for experiments on the Mars Global Surveyor, Mars Odyssey, and Mars Exploration Rovers. There will be lots of discussion of recent results and scientific controversies about Mars.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  PTYS 411, Geology of the Solar System is strongly recommended but not required.
Identical to:  PTYS 442; PTYS is home department.
May be convened with:  ASTR 542.
Usually offered:  Spring.

ASTR 485 -- Radio Astronomy  (3 units)
Description:  While the origin of optical astronomy is lost in the midsts of time, we know exactly when radio astronomy was born, January 1932. This was when Karl Jansky began his first experiments at Bell Telephone Laboratory in Holmdel, NJ. Since then radio astronomy has grown from a serendipitous science to a cornerstone of modern astronomy. In radio astronomy we use photons with characteristic dimensions from 100's of meters to 100's of microns, to probe a huge variety of objects and phenomenon, everything from comets and the origin of the solar system to the origin and structure of the Universe. In this course, you will be introduced to the fundamentals of radio astronomy. Topics will include instrumentation and techniques, emission and absorption mechanisms, present and future telescopes, as well as data analysis techniques. Course material will be introduced through a mixture of classroom discussion, hands-on laboratory experiments, and observational projects.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
May be convened with:  ASTR 585.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

ASTR 486 -- Astronomy Education and Public Outreach  (3 units)
Description:  The four overarching ideas about astronomy education and public outreach that frame this course can be summarized as: (1) the main conceptual ideas that students and the public need to be engaged in regarding astronomy; (2) a working knowledge of science education research and how people learn astronomy in different venues; (3) the most effective strategies to partner with and disseminate materials to K-14 formal learning entities; and (4) the nature of effective informal free-choice learning environments (including modern museums, planetariums, observatory visitor centers, and science centers). Students will study and apply contemporary learning theory in a variety of learning environments and critically evaluate existing products and programs as preparation for planning and evaluating novel programs. Course is characterized by discussion on assigned readings, mini-lectures, field-trips, evaluation of existing programs, and by creation of new programs.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
May be repeated:  for a total of 9 units of credit.
May be convened with:  ASTR 586.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

ASTR 492 -- Directed Research  (1-6 units)
Description:  Individual or small group research under the guidance of faculty. This course will allow students to complete 3 units of independent research and receive a letter grade to be calculated in the GPA.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
May be repeated:  for a total of 12 units of credit.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

ASTR 497A -- Intervention, Retention, and Inclusion for Students  (3 units)
Description:  IRIS (Intervention, Retention, and Inclusion for Students) is an extension of the Teaching Teams Program (TTP), UNVR 197 and UNVR 397. Students taking this course will meet weekly to discuss a variety of issues pertinent to their classes: working with students with special needs such as English as a second language and learning disabilities. They will also be providing support for the classes participating in this program as Preceptor trainers and as Facilitators for students with special needs. Students enrolled in this course will be able to take it up to 3 times for a total of 9 units. This will allow for their continued growth in the program and also allow experienced Facilitators to work with new Facilitators.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
May be repeated:  for credit 3 times (maximum 4 enrollments).
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

ASTR 498 -- Senior Capstone  (1-3 units)
Description:  A culminating experience for majors involving a substantive project that demonstrates a synthesis of learning accumulated in the major, including broadly comprehensive knowledge of the discipline and its methodologies. Senior standing required.
Grading:  Regular or alternative grades can be awarded for this course: A B C D E or S P C D E.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

ASTR 498H -- Honors Thesis  (3 units)
Description:  An honors thesis is required of all the students graduating with honors. Students ordinarily sign up for this course as a two-semester sequence. The first semester the student performs research under the supervision of a faculty member; the second semester the student writes an honors thesis.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
May be repeated:  for a total of 9 units of credit.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

ASTR 499 -- Independent Study  (1-5 units)
Description:  Qualified students working on an individual basis with professors who have agreed to supervise such work.
Grading:  Alternative grades are awarded for this course: S P C D E.
May be repeated:  an unlimited number of times, consult your department for details and possible restrictions.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

ASTR 499H -- Honors Independent Study  (1-5 units)
Description:  Qualified students working on an individual basis with professors who have agreed to supervise such work.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
May be repeated:  an unlimited number of times, consult your department for details and possible restrictions.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

ASTR 503 -- Physics of the Solar System  (3 units)
Description:  Survey of planetary physics, planetary motions, planetary interiors, geophysics, planetary atmospheres, asteroids, comets, origin of the solar system. Graduate-level requirements include an in-depth research paper on a selected topic and an oral class presentation.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Identical to:  PTYS 503; PTYS is home department.
May be convened with:  ASTR 403.
Usually offered:  Spring.

ASTR 507 -- Astrobiology  (3 units)
Description:  Astrobiology is the study of the origin, evolution, distribution, and destiny of life in the universe. It is an interdisciplinary science at the intersection of physics, astronomy, biology, geology, and mathematics, asking where and under what conditions life can arise and exist in the Universe. The course will cover the discovery of planetary systems around other stars, the nature of habitable zones around distant stars, and the existence of life in extreme environments on Earth (including the hydrothermal ecosystems of Yellowstone National Park and the cryogenic ecosystems of Antarctica). The course is appropriate for middle and high school teachers with a minimum of one year teaching experience. Graduate-level requirements include two additional assignments in the form of graduate level term papers.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Identical to:  ECOL 507.
May be convened with:  ASTR 407.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

ASTR 515 -- Interstellar Medium  (3 units)
Description:  Derivation of physical conditions from spectral data. Ionized, atomic and molecular clouds, interstellar dust and magnetic fields. Ionization equilibrium, heating and cooling, supernova shocks, dust and protostellar evolution.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Usually offered:  Spring.

ASTR 518 -- Modern Astronomical Instrumentation and Techniques  (3 units)
Description:  Radiant energy; signals and noise; detectors and techniques for imaging, photometry, polarimetry and spectroscopy. Examples from stellar and planetary astronomy in the x-ray, optical, infrared and radio. Graduate-level requirements include an in-depth research paper.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Identical to:  PTYS 518.
May be convened with:  ASTR 418.
Usually offered:  Fall.

ASTR 519 -- Adaptive Optics  (1 unit)
Description:  An overview of adaptive optics for astronomy and optical sciences grad students. Will cover light propagation through atmospheric turbulence and methods for sensing and correcting wavefront errors. Topics will include laser beacons, multi-conjugate adaptive optics, and exoplanet imaging.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Identical to:  OPTI 519.
Usually offered:  Spring.

ASTR 522 -- Atomic and Molecular Astrophysics  (3 units)
Description:  Interpretation of astronomical spectra: basic aspects of atomic and molecular spectra and processes that enable one to infer physical conditions in astronomical environments from analysis of their electromagnetic spectra. Familiarity with basic quantum mechanics is assumed.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Usually offered:  Fall.

ASTR 535 -- Stellar Structure  (3 units)
Description:  Equations of stellar structure, virial theory, energy transport, equations of state, opacities, nuclear reactions, stellar models, evolution of low and high mass stars, observational tests, rotation and magnetic fields, binary evolution.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Usually offered:  Spring.

ASTR 537 -- The Physics of the Sun  (3 units)
Description:  The purpose of this course is to present an introduction to the physics of the Sun. The course begins with a discussion of the standard solar model, the solar-neutrino problem, and observational techniques. Long-term variability in the total irradiance, sunspot number, and diameter, and its effect on Earth's climate will be addressed in some detail. Other topics include the physics of the solar interior, solar oscillations, and solar composition. This course will also introduce the equations of magnetohydrodynamics and apply them to important solar-physics problems, such as: the solar magnetic dynamo, stability of prominences, physics of sunspots and flares, and heating of the solar atmosphere. The emphasis throughout will be on basic physical processes and the various approximations used in their application to concrete problems.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Identical to:  PTYS 537; PTYS is home department.
Usually offered:  Fall.

ASTR 539 -- Methods of Teaching Space Sciences  (3 units)
Description:  Planning and assessment in space science teaching, identification and correction of student misconceptions, management of classroom discourse, and use of technology for data collection and analysis. Graduate level requirements include two additional critical review projects, one of which must be suitable for submission to Astronomy Education Review as a scholarly review.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
May be convened with:  ASTR 439.
Usually offered:  Fall.

ASTR 540 -- Structure and Dynamics of Galaxies  (3 units)
Description:  Observational properties of galaxies; structure, kinematics, star and gas content. Structure of our own galaxy. Dynamics of stellar systems: equilibria, instabilities, internally and externally driven evolution.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Usually offered:  Fall.

ASTR 541 -- Extragalactic Astronomy and Cosmology  (3 units)
Description:  The structure, origin and evolution of the physical universe from theory and observations of systems outside our own galaxy. Relativistic cosmology; galaxy evolution and clustering; active galaxies and quasars; the microwave background; galaxy formation; the hot big bang; and physics of the early universe.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  ASTR 540.
Usually offered:  Spring.

ASTR 542 -- Mars  (3 units)
Description:  In-depth class about the planet Mars, including origin and evolution, geophysics, geology, atmospheric science, climate change, the search for life, and the history and future of Mars exploration. There will be guest lectures from professors and research scientists with expertise about aspects of Mars. The course will include visits to Mars exploration centers at the University of Arizona and Arizona State University, including the operations center for the Gamma Ray Spectrometer on the Mars Odyssey spacecraft, currently orbiting Mars, and an all-day trip to the Mars Space Flight Facility at Arizona State University, operations center for experiments on the Mars Global Surveyor, Mars Odyssey, and Mars Exploration Rovers. There will be lots of discussion of recent results and scientific controversies about Mars. Graduate-level requirements include the completion of a research project that will be presented in class as well as a report. The research project could be analysis of Mars datasets, a laboratory experiment, or new theoretical modeling.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  PTYS 511, Geology of the Solar System is strongly recommended but not required.
Identical to:  PTYS 542; PTYS is home department.
May be convened with:  ASTR 442.
Usually offered:  Spring.

ASTR 545 -- Stellar Atmospheres  (3 units)
Description:  Radiative transfer, gray atmosphere, opacity, line formation, non-LTE, curves of growth, stellar hydrodynamics, planetary applications.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Identical to:  PTYS 545.
Usually offered:  Fall.

ASTR 553 -- Solar System Dynamics  (3 units)
Description:  Dynamical processes affecting the orbital evolution of planets, asteroids, and satellites, and the rotational evolution of solid bodies. Emphasizes modern nonlinear dynamics and chaos.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  MATH 254, PHYS 422 or consult department before enrolling.
Identical to:  PTYS 553; PTYS is home department.
Usually offered:  Spring.

ASTR 558 -- Plasma Physics with Astrophysical and Solar System Applications  (3 units)
Description:  The goal of this course is to present an introduction to fundamental plasma physics and magnetohydrodymics, beginning with kinetic theory. The various important limits including the vlasov equation and magnetohydrodynamics will be derived. Applications will be mostly from astrophysics and the solar system. These will include the main dynamical processes in the solar atmosphere, interplanetary medium, magnetospheres, interstellar medium, blast waves, accretion disks, etc. The emphasis throughout will be on basic physical processes and the various approximations used in their application to concrete problems.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Identical to:  PTYS 558; PTYS is home department.
Usually offered:  Fall.

ASTR 571 -- General Relativity and Cosmology  (3 units)
Description:  General relativity with application to celestial mechanics, stellar structure, gravitational radiation, black holes, gravitational lensing and cosmology.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Identical to:  PHYS 571.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

ASTR 575 -- Theoretical Techniques in Astrophysics  (3 units)
Temporary course:  offered during Spring 2008 only.
Description:  This course surveys some of the essential tools and explanations in an astrophysicist's toolbox. What our treatment here lacks in depth of coverage it makes up for in multiplicity of topics. Astrophysicists are generalists and as such have to call upon a variety of subjects, techniques, and talents to solve problems. Furthermore, they (we) have to be able to make quick quantitative estimates of anything and everything in the Universe, if only to ascertain whether a given explanation for a new phenomenon has any merit whatsoever. Given this, it is paramount that details not be allowed to interfere with an assessment of a phenomenon's or objects essential character. To facilitate such quick insight, a collection of basic results, simple generic formulae, and the general facts that structure one's astrophysical knowledge serves one in good stead. Moreover, the more connections you can make between the phenomena, environments, and processes of Nature; the better you understand any one of them and can extrapolate to general truths. Hence, in this course we range from the mundane to the exotic in an attempt to put this philosophy into practice. You should come away with a better appreciation of the essential meaning of the equations and principles that govern the physical universe. Good intuitions are made, not born, and with this course we hope to hone yours.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Typical structure:  2 hours lecture, 1 hour discussion.

ASTR 579 -- Writing for Astronomers  (3 units)
Description:  The purpose of this class is to strengthen the writing skills of the student along the entire range of writing, from technical scientific writing in astronomy to popular articles about astronomy. It has the secondary purpose of preparing the student for the wide variety of occasions when communication skills, written and verbal, will be required in the professional practice of astronomy.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  Graduate standing.
Typical structure:  2 hours lecture, 1 hour discussion.
Usually offered:  Fall.

ASTR 582 -- High Energy Astrophysics  (3 units)
Description:  Radiation mechanisms, synchrotron radiation, charged particle acceleration, pulsars, black holes, accretion disks, X-ray binaries, gamma-ray sources, radio galaxies, active galactic nuclei.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Identical to:  PHYS 582, PTYS 582.
Usually offered:  Spring.

ASTR 585 -- Radio Astronomy  (3 units)
Description:  While the origin of optical astronomy is lost in the midsts of time, we know exactly when radio astronomy was born, January 1932. This was when Karl Jansky began his first experiments at Bell Telephone Laboratory in Holmdel, NJ. Since then radio astronomy has grown from a serendipitous science to a cornerstone of modern astronomy. In radio astronomy we use photons with characteristic dimensions from 100's of meters to 100's of microns, to probe a huge variety of objects and phenomenon, everything from comets and the origin of the solar system to the origin and structure of the Universe. In this course, you will be introduced to the fundamentals of radio astronomy. Topics will include instrumentation and techniques, emission and absorption mechanisms, present and future telescopes, as well as data analysis techniques. Course material will be introduced through a mixture of classroom discussion, hands-on laboratory experiments, and observational projects. Graduate students requirements include more extensive homework, laboratory, and observing assignments than the undergraduate participants.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
May be convened with:  ASTR 485.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

ASTR 586 -- Astronomy Education and Public Outreach  (3 units)
Description:  The four overarching ideas about astronomy education and public outreach that frame this course can be summarized as: (1) the main conceptual ideas that students and the public need to be engaged in regarding astronomy; (2) a working knowledge of science education research and how people learn astronomy in different venues; (3) the most effective strategies to partner with and disseminate materials to K-14 formal learning entities; and (4) the nature of effective informal free-choice learning environments (including modern museums, planetariums, observatory visitor centers, and science centers). Students will study and apply contemporary learning theory in a variety of learning environments and critically evaluate existing products and programs as preparation for planning and evaluating novel programs. Course is characterized by discussion on assigned readings, mini-lectures, field-trips, evaluation of existing programs, and by creation of new programs. Graduate-level requirements include two additional critical review projects, one of which must be suitable for submission to Astronomy Education Review as a scholarly review.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
May be repeated:  for a total of 9 units of credit.
May be convened with:  ASTR 486.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

ASTR 587 -- Nuclear Astrophysics  (3 units)
Description:  A survey of the origin of the elements in stars and the Big Bang. Topics include supernovae and stellar evolution, abundances in meteorites, metal-poor stars, and high-redshift systems, and the nature of the first stars.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Identical to:  GEOS 587, PHYS 587, PTYS 587.
Usually offered:  Fall.

ASTR 589 -- Topics in Theoretical Astrophysics  (3 units)
Description:  Current topics in theoretical astrophysics in depth, with emphasis on the methodology and techniques of the theorist and the cross-disciplinary nature of astrophysics theory. Example subjects are nuclear astrophysics, hydrodynamics, transient phenomena, planetary interiors and atmospheres, neutron stars, jets and the evolution of star clusters.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
May be repeated:  for credit 1 time (maximum 2 enrollments).
Identical to:  PHYS 589; PHYS is home department.
Usually offered:  Fall.

ASTR 591A -- Preceptorship in Astronomy  (1-9 units)
Description:  Preceptors assist as part of a teaching team with the professor and graduate teaching assistant.
Grading:  Alternative grades are awarded for this course: S P C D E.
May be repeated:  for a total of 9 units of credit.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

ASTR 596B -- Methods in Computational Astrophysics  (3 units)
Description:  The course is a "hands-on" introduction to computer use for research by scientists in astrophysics and related areas. The course begins with a survey of and introduction to tools available on Linux systems, web-based tools, and open-source software widely used in astrophysics. Standard methods for integration, iteration, differential and difference equations, and Monte Carlo simulations, are discussed, in one to four dimensions. Historically important methods of radiative transfer, reaction networks, and hydrodynamics are presented, and contrasted with presently-used methods. Parallel programming is introduced, and discussed in terms of new and future computer systems. Special topics are added to reflect new developments. The course is task-oriented, with individual and team work projects, and class participation determining grades. Most of the work is done on the student's own personal computer (Linux or Mac operating systems are preferred).
Grading:  Regular or alternative grades can be awarded for this course: A B C D E or S P C D E.
Identical to:  PHYS 596B.
Usually offered:  Spring.

ASTR 596F -- College Astronomy Teaching  (1 unit)
Description:  An overview of the introductory astronomy curriculum, effective teaching approaches that focus on student learning, and appropriate testing and grading methods for students planning on teaching at the collegiate level. Current topics in pedagogical content knowledge are covered in depth, with an emphasis on the undergraduate non-science major.
Grading:  Regular or alternative grades can be awarded for this course: A B C D E or S P C D E.
May be repeated:  for a total of 3 units of credit.
Usually offered:  Spring, Summer.

ASTR 597A -- Teacher Leaders in Research-Based Science Education  (3 units)
Description:  This course includes a 16 week distant learning course and a two week summer in-residence workshop at Kitt Peak National Observatory. Participants are trained in astronomy content, pedagogy, and leadership skills.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  Participants are selected competitively through an annual application process.
Usually offered:  Spring.

ASTR 599 -- Independent Study  (1-5 units)
Description:  Qualified students working on an individual basis with professors who have agreed to supervise such work. Graduate students doing independent work which cannot be classified as actual research will register for credit under course number 599, 699, or 799.
Grading:  Alternative grades are awarded for this course: S P C D E.
May be repeated:  an unlimited number of times, consult your department for details and possible restrictions.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

ASTR 699 -- Independent Study  (1-5 units)
Description:  Qualified students working on an individual basis with professors who have agreed to supervise such work. Graduate students doing independent work which cannot be classified as actual research will register for credit under course number 599, 699, or 799.
Grading:  Alternative grades are awarded for this course: S P C D E.
May be repeated:  an unlimited number of times, consult your department for details and possible restrictions.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

ASTR 900 -- Research  (1-8 units)
Description:  Individual research, not related to thesis or dissertation preparation, by graduate students.
Grading:  Alternative grades are awarded for this course: S P C D E K.
May be repeated:  an unlimited number of times, consult your department for details and possible restrictions.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

ASTR 910 -- Thesis  (2-4 units)
Description:  Research for the master's thesis (whether library research, laboratory or field observation or research, artistic creation, or thesis writing). Maximum total credit permitted varies with the major department.
Grading:  Alternative grades are awarded for this course: S P E K.
May be repeated:  an unlimited number of times, consult your department for details and possible restrictions.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

ASTR 920 -- Dissertation  (1-9 units)
Description:  Research for the doctoral dissertation (whether library research, laboratory or field observation or research, artistic creation, or dissertation writing).
Grading:  Alternative grades are awarded for this course: S P E K.
May be repeated:  an unlimited number of times, consult your department for details and possible restrictions.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

ASTR 930 -- Supplementary Registration  (1-9 units)
Description:  For students who have completed all course requirements for their advanced degree programs. May be used concurrently with other enrollments to bring to total number of units to the required minimum.
Grading:  Grade of K is awarded for this course except for the final term.
May be repeated:  an unlimited number of times, consult your department for details and possible restrictions.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.