What will I learn in an astronomy minor?
In the astronomy minor, you'll take foundational courses in planetary astronomy and stellar astronomy, which studies galaxies and star systems. You'll learn how to use a telescope for observation and how to calculate key measurements for planets and stars such as temperature and size.
Courses in astrophysics will apply basic principles from physics to understand astronomical principles, including the position and movement of stars. The minor also includes basic physics courses to give you the tools to understand the scientific principles underlying the study of the solar system.
Planetary observation is available on campus from the Planetarium and the Leifson Physics building. Additionally, Reno is home to the MacLean Observatory at the Redfield Campus in South Reno. The observatory features twin observing domes with 22-inch and 14-inch telescopes. Research resources for astronomy students in the physics department include telescopes as well as a spectrometer and CCD camera.
Senior thesis project
All students in the astronomy minor complete a senior thesis project, which is a individual research project that draws connections between your major and the field of astronomy. You'll draw on your previous courses in astronomy, as well as knowledge of you major field of study, to develop a research project. You'll use critical thinking and reasoning skills, as well as your knowledge of the scientific process to complete your project, which will be shared in a written in oral presentation.
