Overview
It explores the physics, chemistry, and evolution of objects like moons, planets, stars, nebulae, and galaxies, as well as features like supernovae explosions and cosmic background radiation.
Only available as a minor.
At a Glance
Curriculum
Why study astronomy at »»ÆÞ̽»¨?
The astronomy program is part of the Physics department.
A key feature of the department is the experiential learning approach used in many courses. Students learn through collaborative, hands-on activities, and find this an effective and exciting method for grasping the concepts of each course.
Small, intense classes, coupled with varied research opportunities, create a challenging but caring environment where genuine interaction between students and faculty is paramount.
The astronomy program includes such topics as:
- solar system astronomy
- stars, galaxies and the Universe
- astrophysics
- life in the Universe
The »»ÆÞ̽»¨ Gemini Observatory (MAGO) hosts daytime lab periods and a number of nighttime observing periods.
Astronomy is available as a minor only.
Not sure about the difference between a major, a minor, an honours, and a certificate?
Program highlights
»»ÆÞ̽»¨ Gemini Observatory
The »»ÆÞ̽»¨ Gemini Observatory (MAGO) is a dual-dome astronomical observatory housing two identical 11" Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes.
It is used extensively by the Physics department for hands-on astronomy classes, as well as being open to the public for special viewing nights and activities.
Some of the celestial objects viewed through our telescopes include planets and moons of our solar system, nebulae, star clusters, and galaxies.
A minor in Astronomy combines astronomy-related courses in physics with complementary courses in a number of other disciplines, including:
In addition to formal astronomy courses, the Physics department offers a number of advanced courses relevant to those planning a career in astrophysics, including:
- modern optics
- classical mechanics
- relativity
- signal processing
PHYS 1021 — Solar System Astronomy
This course introduces observational and solar system astronomy. Topics include observational astronomy, celestial mechanics, solar system patterns, theories of origin, radiometric dating, processes which transform planet surfaces, planetary atmospheres, comets, asteroids, meteoroids, and the search for life beyond Earth. It considers extrasolar planetary systems in the context of theories of solar system formation.
PHYS 1031 — Stars, Galaxies, and the Universe
This course introduces stellar and galactic astronomy as well as cosmology. Topics include optics and telescopes, atomic structure and spectra, the sun, stellar types and evolution, stellar remnants (black holes, neutron stars, and white dwarfs), quantum and relativistic ideas, galaxies, and dark matter and energy.
PHYS 3001 — Astrophysics
This course introduces a mathematical approach to the study of the universe. Topics include: celestial mechanics, stellar spectra, Hertzsprung-Russell diagrams, star formation, stellar evolution, stellar deaths and remnants, galaxy types and evolution, large-scale structure, and an introduction to cosmology and general relativity.
PHYS 3021 — Life in the Universe
This course will examine issues concerning the origin, evolution and survival of life in the universe from an astrophysical perspective. Topics covered include cosmology and the origin and evolution of the universe, solar system origin, detection of extrasolar planets, what is life and what conditions are necessary to sustain it, searches for life in the solar system, habitable zones, complex organics in extraterrestrial materials, delivery of organics to the primordial and current Earth and other planets, astrophysical threats to life on Earth, life in space, and searches for extraterrestrial intelligence.
PHYS 4411 — Classical Mechanics and Relativity
This course covers three-dimensional dynamics of both particles and rigid bodies using various coordinate systems. The course focuses on an introduction to Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formalisms, followed by application of these approaches to problems in constrained motion. Other topics covered include motion in resistive fluids, planetary orbits, motion in accelerated reference frames and the inertia tensor. The latter part of the course provides an introduction to general relativity including spacetime invariants, metric and metric tensor, the field equations and tests of general relativity. (Format: Integrated Lecture/ Laboratory, 6 Hours)
Faculty Spotlight
Dr. Catherine Lovekin
Associate professor, Physics (Astronomy)
» »»ÆÞ̽»¨ astronomer appointed to Digital Research Alliance of Canada's Researcher Council
» »»ÆÞ̽»¨ astronomer assists in tracking nova outburst
What can I do with an astronomy minor?
Through extensive lab experience, faculty-supervised research, and close mentorship, students develop practical skills and critical thinking abilities valued by employers and graduate programs.
Recognized by Maclean's as Canada's top undergraduate university, »»ÆÞ̽»¨'s strong academic reputation helps graduates stand out as they pursue diverse career paths.
Many go on to top graduate and professional programs in astrophysics and physics, while others go into careers in such fields as astronomy, space research, and beyond.
Popular career paths in astronomy include:
- aerospace engineer
- meteorologist
- astronaut
- atmospheric physicist
- astrophysicist
- computer systems analyst
- mining/geological engineer
- forensic engineer
- telescope structures/optics specialist
What is it like to study at »»ÆÞ̽»¨?
The thing I loved most about the Astronomy program at »»ÆÞ̽»¨ is the hands-on experience it gives you. Whether it be in a class-based lab, or through a summer research position, you are given a chance to do hands-on astronomy at a high level.
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What are my admission requirements?
What are other programs related to astronomy?
Physics
Physics seeks to describe the nature of the physical world. It includes the study of everything from subatomic particles to the essence of the universe as a whole.
Mathematics
Mathematics is the foundation of most modern quantitative and qualitative studies. It has many faces, from practical uses of its statistical tools to theoretical studies of abstract relationships.
Chemistry
Chemistry studies the composition of substances, the ways in which their properties are related to their composition, and the interaction of substances to produce new materials.