2. INTRODUCTION TO ASTRONOMY
What is Astronomy ?
Astronomy is NOT Astrology
Why do we study Astronomy ?

3. Astronomy - the scientific study of the Universe beyond Earth
Astronomy is a true science. It includes the topics of the history of astronomy, human space exploration, our Sun and Moon, planets, other stars, galaxies, and cosmology (the origin, structure, and fate of the whole Universe).

4. Astronomy is a True Science
Astronomy is based on observations and experiments that can be repeated, and that give the same results no matter who does the experiment or makes the observation.
Astronomy makes precise predictions about our Universe that can be tested to see if the predictions are true or not.
Astronomy makes use of other well-established sciences like physics and chemistry.

6. Astrology is NOT a Science
Seeks to discover “hidden knowledge” by the interpretation of omens (like reading tea leaves).
Results are not repeatable.
Predictions are vague and not testable.
Does not incorporate sciences like chemistry and physics.

7. Astrology Prediction for your Teacher
The weather forecast for your day will include some fog, but you can help burn it off early if you keep a sunny disposition. Instead of letting the gray mood of grouchy folks turn you inward or sullen, let it be a challenge to you to be all the more cheerful. With one chirpy 'good morning!' you will be able to turn a frown into a smile -- and get a rush from your ensuing sense of power. Spread your bright demeanor to strangers and friends alike, and make it a great day… Awfully vague – covers about everything. Worthless.

8. Why do we study Astronomy ?
Natural disasters
Recreation and esthetics
Scientific inquiry and curiosity
Education of an informed society (you !)
Our place in the Universe
Origin and fate of the Universe (Cosmology)
True Science versus science fiction

9. Natural Disasters
Comet and meteorite impacts, for example.

10. BOOM !!

12. Recreation and Esthetics
The Universe is beautiful.

15. Scientific Inquiry and Curiosity
For example – our instruments can see what our eyes cannot.
Space exploration.

16. Saturn – Different Kinds of Light

17. Saturn – Different Kinds of Light
Ultraviolet Visible
Infrared Radio

18. Space Exploration

19. Education of an Informed Society

20. Our Place in the Universe
Where are we?

23. 50 thousand light years away

24. Origin and Fate of the Universe
This part of Astronomy is called Cosmology.
Cosmology seeks a scientific explanation for how the Universe began and how it might end (or will it go on forever?).

25. The Beginning – The Big Bang

26. 100 billion years from now the Universe will appear frozen in time as we look out into space. Only the light from the Local Group of galaxies will remain visible, if anyone is still around to see it.

27. True Science versus Science Fiction
Some astronomy stuff may be weird, BUT IT’S TRUE.
Black Holes.
Radiation from the beginning of the Universe.
Science fiction is just weird.
Favorite movies.

28. A Spinning Black Hole

29. Radiation from the Beginning of the Universe 13.7 billion years ago