Astronomy 322 is a prerequisite. This course assumes basic knowledge of calculus, differential equations, and physics through electromagnetism (any of which may be taken concurrently). Computer programming skill would be helpful, but not necessary, as you will learn it in the class.
This course addresses stellar theory and observation. It goes into much greater depth of our understanding of stellar atmospheres and interiors than does Astronomy 322. We will be covering the fundamental equations of atmospheres and interiors, and how we use these equations in our models. We will be comparing theory with observations, learning how theory drives the observations and how the observations constrain the theory.
This course meets twice a week in 80-minute sessions. During this time there will be some lecturing by the instructor, but the majority of the time will be spent in discussions, sharing of knowledge, teaching each other, and learning to model stars through computer programs. Students are expected to have read the corresponding chapters before coming to class on the day the chapters are assigned. To help motivate students to meet this goal, each reading assignment has a "Reading Quiz" through the University of Washington's Catalyst Tools that must be completed by a due date. The course is broken down into three learning units: Introduction to Modeling Stellar Atmospheres, Introduction to Modeling Stellar Interiors, and Observations of Stellar Pulsation, Formation, Evolution, and Star Populations.
Evaluation of student participation in the course will come through informal submission of outlines, programs, drafts, problems, etc. Assignments involving the computer programming and the final exam will be graded by the instructor. Additional details will be given in class during the preparation for the assignments.
| Percent | Decimal Grade | Percent | Decimal Grade | Percent | Decimal Grade | Percent | Decimal Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 95 | 4.0 | 85 | 3.0 | 75 | 2.5 | 65 | 1.5 |
| 90 | 3.5 | 80 | 2.75 | 70 | 2.0 | 60 | 1.0 |
| Reading Quizzes | 85 | ||
| Assignments: | 260 | Model Atmos : 160 points |
BZAMS Project: 75 points
|
| Final Exam | 100 | Take Home Exam | |
| Total Points Possible: | 445 | ||
A full list of learning objectives will soon be available at http://www.astro.washington.edu/astro421/lessons_detail.html
Students are expected to be prepared for each class, having read the assigned material, worked on and solved any problems due, and having a plan for contributing to the class discussion. The guidelines are given in the point-breakdown itemized above.
We will have many occasions to work as teams or in groups. Helping your fellow classmates is encouraged, as long as the interaction is evenly balanced (a nice way of saying "no copying").
There may be circumstances where work must be turned in late due to prior commitments, more stringent deadlines in other classes, illnesses, or other unavoidable situations. Please give me as much lead time as possible, explaining your circumstances. The exceptions are handled on a case-by-case basis, with the default mode being "do your best." I'd rather we discuss your making up the work than not having you do the work at all and end up missing out on that learning exerience. Unexcused late assignments ("late" meaning after I've graded and handed back the rest of the students' work, approximately after 1 week) have 50% deducted. Note: due dates may change due to unforeseen difficulties.
Plus more.
Please visit my homepage at the Astronomy Department: http://www.astro.washington.edu/larson/ (although it's a bit outdated)
Available on-line