INQ-177 | The History of the Telescope

Topic Description:

Students will learn about the history of astronomical observation along three parallel paths: (i) classroom instruction including lab, demonstration, and discussion; (ii) actual naked eye and telescope observations with visits to local non-optical telescope sites; (iii) participation in role-playing debate regarding the events associated with Galileo's first observations of Jupiter's moons and the phases of Venus. Topics of study will include the basics of optics and the nature of light, fundamentals of apparent night sky motions, socio-religious and philosophical problems associated with Galileo's observations of Jupiter's moons, and why non-optical observations are important to astronomers. Student learning will be measured through a combination of conceptual quizzes, short topical essays, and participation in role-playing debates.

Course Types Offered: On-Campus, Field Trip

Topic Approved: October 2008