Course overview
This course will provide students with knowledge on earth and the universe. History of Astronomy; the Solar System, Properties and Evolution of Stars; Galaxies and Cosmology; Aboriginal skies; Space Missions and Earth's Observation; Earth's History and its Structure; Processes in the Rock Cycle and the Hydrologic Cycle; Resources on Earth and in Space.
Course learning outcomes
- Outline different cosmologies and the historical development of modern astronomy.
- Describe how we explore the Universe by giving examples of technologies and methods.
- Explain current theories about the evolution of our Universe and relate this to the formation of galaxies, the stars, our solar system and other objects in space.
- Outline the history of human exploration of our solar system and identify some of the issues created by the space environment.
- Demonstrate use of professional analysis tools and astronomical equipment for identifying and understanding features of the night sky.
- Discuss the impact of humanity on the Earth and universe through the use of resources and scientific exploration, including issues arising concerning sustainability and availability to all people.
- Discuss the key processes in Earth's biosphere, geosphere, atmosphere and hydrosphere, and the interconnectivity between them.