Introduction
This program has been very popular over the past decade. All of the introductory courses apply toward the university general baccalaureate degree requirements in science. Astronomy 100 is designed for non-science majors, while Astronomy 205-206 is intended for students with science and mathematics skills. These two courses give a more detailed and in-depth view of astronomy, and education majors have found them particularly useful. Astronomy 311 is a descriptive-type course open to juniors and seniors and is very popular with education majors and liberal arts students. Independent study projects are possible using modern facilities. Students often develop skills in photography while involved with this program.

Why Study Astronomy at UW-Stevens Point
The observational equipment is of excellent quality, and the Astronomy classes enjoy the use of both the university Observatory and the Planetarium. Students have the opportunity to use the 16" Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope which is housed in the Observatory dome or one of several small telescopes. Photography is done with 35mm cameras and with a recently added CCD camera which can be attached to many of the telescopes. Planetarium programs are offered both within classes and on a voluntary basis and are open to all students, faculty, and the general public. Several students from various majors who have taken astronomy courses are employed in the planetarium as lecturers. These students gain invaluable teaching experience during their employment.

Department Features
All faculty members are highly qualified and have indicated a strong interest in teaching. Some faculty members are engaged in astronomical research, and all are involved in the development of new curriculum and laboratory materials. Night observation sessions are conducted by faculty members. One faculty member serves as the University Planetarium and Observatory Director.

Employment Opportunities
Many students take courses in Astronomy to satisfy general degree requirements in the natural sciences. However, others find that courses in Astronomy can enhance their other academic pursuits, such as outdoor education, physics, chemistry, or geology. Some students have continued their astronomy studies in graduate school. Any student planning to teach in the physical science field (at any level) will find employment opportunities highly enhanced if some astronomy courses are a part of the academic record. Some middle/junior and senior high schools now have small planetariums and night observation facilities, and the need for well-trained teachers in physics and astronomy remains acute.

Astronomy Courses

Astronomy 100 - Unveiling the Universe - 3 Credits
An encounter with ideas concerning the physical universe, from earth to intergalactic space. Two hours lecture, two hours lab per week. GDR:NS.

Astronomy 205 - The Solar System - 4 Credits
A contemporary perspective with emphasis on understanding basic principles of astronomy, coordinate systems, telescopes, planetary phenomena, and recent results of planetary exploration. Three hours lecture, three hours lab per week. Prereq: Mathematics 100 or equiv or consent of chair. GDR:NS

Astronomy 206 - Stars and Stellar Systems - 4 Credits
An examination of the content and evolution of the universe, including the birth and death of stars, the nature of galaxies, and the mystery of quasars and black holes, with emphasis on understanding physical concepts. Three hours lecture, three hours lab per week. Prereq: Mathematics 100 or equiv or consent of chair. GDR:NS

Astronomy 311 - Introduction to Astronomy - 3 Credits
Descriptive approach to astronomy through study of the solar system, stars, star clusters, nebulae, and galaxies; evening meetings required for observation; use of telescopes and planetarium. Not open to students who have had 205 and/or 206. GDR:NS BS

Astronomy 380 - Selected Topics - 1-3 Credits
Prereq: Consent of instructor.