This course provides a physics-based, mathematical introduction to the
astronomy of stars,
It is intended primarily for Astronomy, Astrophysics, and Physics majors.
Topics which are covered include:
orbital motions;
coordinate systems:
telescopes;
emission and absorption of radiation;
the observed properties of stars;
stellar interiors;
stellar spectra;
binary stars;
the Sun;
and the life and death of stars.
Motion and Gravity [Chapt. 6; Chapt. 7, pp. 129-132 (Ed. 4), pp. 131-135 (Ed. 5)]
Review of Vectors, if needed [Appendix A.4; pp. 394-396 (Ed. 4), pp. 434-436 (Ed. 5)]
Electromagnetism and Light [Chapt. 5]
Basic Stellar Properties [Chapt. 4]
Note: Parallax, proper motion, and Doppler effect are in Section 2.10,
which was assigned previously
Binary Stars [Chapt. 9]
End of Material for Test #1
Atomic Physics and Stellar Spectra Stars [Chapt. 8]
The Sun [Chapt. 12]
Stellar Structure [Chapt. 10]
End of Material for Test #2
Stellar Evolution [Chapts. 11 & 13]
The Death of Stars [Chapt. 14] (See also Appendix B.)
Websites for More Information
To learn about satellites (the International Space Station, or the
Shuttles, or Iridium Flares) passing over
Charlottesville, or other locations, go to
