ASTR 1010
Astronomy of the Solar System

Study Guide Exam#1

The student should be able to know and understand the following things:

• Scientific Method

  • Definition and Purpose of Science

  • Levels of Information Gathering

  • Characteristics of a Good Experiment

  • Difference between on Observation and an Experiment

  • Definitions of Hypothesis, Law and Theory

  • Serendipity

  • Misconceptions About Science

• Naked Eye Astronomy

  • Why the Earth has seasons (diagram and describe)

    • Tilt leading to more direct sunlight and longer days

  • Why the Moon has phases (diagram and describe)

  • Why there are eclipses (diagram and describe)

  • Celestial Coordinates Systems (List and Describe and discuss advantages and disadvantages)

    • The Horizon Coordinate System-Azimuth and Altitude

    • Right Ascension and Declination

    • Constellations

  • Angular Measurement

  • Terrestrial Coordinate System-Latitude and Longitude

  • Apparent Motions of the Heavens

    • Daily, Monthly and Yearly Motions of Stars, Moon and Sun

    • Differences in the apparent motions between winter and summer.

    • Draw the celestial sphere

      • Horizon View: CNP, Zenith, Horizon, CE

      • Space View: CNP, CSP, CE, Ecliptic, Equinoxes, Solstices

Copyright © 2000, Gordon College. All rights reserved.
Revised: February 11, 2011