Undergraduate Certificate in Space Studies

This course covers basic principles of introductory astronomy. Students participate in active discussion boards covering subjects such as early astronomy and astronomers, near earth astronomy, the sun, inner and outer planets of our solar system, stars, black holes and manned/unmanned space exploration. This course delves into each planet as well as astronomical phenomenon. In addition, the student will learn the duties and methods of the professional astronomer. Concurrent enrollment in corresponding Lab Course is required.

The Astronomy Lab will take the student deeper into the aspects of our solar system through the study and location of stars via an interactive CD-ROM. Topics to be discussed in the course range from location of celestial bodies to differences in the seasons’ night skies. Concurrent enrollment in corresponding Lecture Course is required.

Students in this course assess the major aspects of space flight. The course covers space flight from early rocketry through the development of satellite navigation, meteorology, and telecommunications, up to human space flight. Course topics also include: rocket propulsion, basic orbital mechanics, the space environment, living and working in space, and an overview of non-U.S. space programs. (Prerequisite: IR477).

Pre Reqs: Introduction to Space Studies(SPST300)

Asteroids, meteorites and comets, the leftover material from the formation of our solar system, are all key to understanding its origin. The composition, history and interrelationships of these objects will be covered, as well as their influence on the Earth and other bodies, and what they tell us about the early solar system. (Prerequisite: IR477).

Pre Reqs: Introduction to Space Studies(SPST300)

This course is a history of human activity in space and includes rocketry, space associations, voluntary organizations, human flight, unmanned flight, satellites, science-fiction, and ballistic missiles. (Prerequisite: IR477).

Pre Reqs: Introduction to Space Studies(SPST300)

This course addresses the United States organization for space operations, to include exploration, satellite operations, military purposes, and research and development. Included in the organization will be the linkages between governmental and non-governmental enterprises in or dealing with space. The course will also briefly address comparative organizations for space as witnessed in other industrialized nations. (Prerequisite: IR477).

Pre Reqs: Introduction to Space Studies(SPST300)

Students taking this course compute and calculate satellite orbits, planetary orbits, solar system orbits, and other essential space orbits. Designed for the non-scientist student, this course provides a fundamental understanding of how orbital mechanics works in space. (Prerequisites: MA113 and IR477).

Pre Reqs: Introduction to Space Studies(SPST300),College Trigonometry(MATH111)