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Astronomy 294 is an introduction to the study of life in the universe, or alternatively, astrobiology. The topics that will be covered in the course exist at the interfaces of astronomy, chemistry, biology, geology, and the earth and planetary sciences. We will learn about scientists' ongoing quest for answers to some of the most fundamental human questions: How did life originate on Earth? Is there life on other planets? Are we alone in the universe? What is the long-term future of life in the universe?
In particular, we will divide our time approximately equally between three topics: (1) the emergence and nature of life on the Earth, (2) the potential for life on other planets in the solar system, and (3) the search for habitable worlds and life throughout the Galaxy. The course will begin with a brief introduction to modern science and astronomy, and end with a brief digression on the long-term future of life on our planet, and in the universe in general.
Note that this course only counts as an elective, but students may petition to have it count as a Physical Science Course in the Natural Science category of the General Education Curriculum. Please contact me if you are interested in doing so. Note, however, that Astronomy 294 is only three credits.
I recommend that students make copies of these outlines before class and then take notes on these outlines during class.
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