An Introduction to Astronomy

When & Where

1 February 2025 - 1 February 2025 ( 4 hours, 1 weeks )
Saturday
View course timetable
North Kensington Centre

Quick Facts

Availability Yes
Tutor Radmila Topalovic
Course Code K24SHEQ01A
Suitable For 19 year olds and up are permitted on this course

What you will learn

This is an introductory course in which you will develop a basic understanding of the night sky, our position in the Solar System, the Milky Way and the Universe. We will use interactive software and apps to explore our solar system and others throughout the galaxy and look at potential habitable worlds. We will compare and contrast different types of stars and we will glimpse into the future of our star, the Sun. We will take a journey through the Milky Way and beyond and we’ll conclude with a brief discussion on the nature of the Universe and the gaps in our understanding that still need to be filled.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

Describe the main aspects of the celestial sphere and explain how we map and track the night sky
Demonstrate use of a stargazing app on your mobile device or programme on your laptop such as Stellarium
Plan your own stargazing session and record your observations
Recall the basics of how binoculars and telescopes work
Explain the lunar phase cycle and track the Moon as it orbits the Earth
Describe the main features and locations of the 8 planets of the Solar System, some of the moons and other objects such as asteroids, dwarf planets and comets
Compare and contrast extrasolar planets with our solar system and state and explain conditions required for life
Define the stellar classification system and state the relationship between a star’s colour and its temperature
Describe the basic structure of the Milky Way as seen from Earth and from space and compare it with other galaxies
Describe the overall structure of the Universe

Cost

Full fee

£45

Concession fee

£45

Class format and activities

Interactive lecture - all information will be made available for download. Be prepared to contribute to class discussion. There will be short online quizzes during the course that can be completed on your mobile phone. You will be encouraged to record your own observations of the night sky either by drawing or taking photos on your phone.

Entry requirements

No previous knowledge is required. However, an enthusiasm for learning and an open and critical mind will enhance your enjoyment and benefit from this course. A good level of English is required to take part in discussion.

What you need to know before you enrol

This course is for beginners and there will be basic practical activities for you to try outside of the lesson. You may wish to install a stargazing app or platform such as Stellairum on your computer or mobile device.

What you need

There are no other costs but you will require a notepad and pen if you wish to take notes. Also you may wish to use a mobile device or laptop to install a stargazing app.