• Grades 9-12
• Length of Course: 1 semester
• Prerequisites:  Algebra I

This course of study will include various aspects of the earth and its lunar system, an in depth survey of the solar system from the inside out, including but not limited to galaxies, galactic cluster, spacial formations, as in black holes, emission nebulae, absorption nebulae, pulsars, cosmic strings, gravitational lensing of light, and binary systems.  This class will include a section of introductory observational astronomy with instruction on how to use a telescope and binoculars for astronomy.  There will be an introduction to the celestial sphere, altitude-azimuth, right ascension and declination coordinate systems, how to use a planisphere to find objects in the night sky, a study of constellations and a small section on constellation mythology.  This class will require a student project including a formal presentation and report.  Students will be required to teach each other.  There will be an opportunity for numerous, (a minimum of 3), extra credit observational astronomy late night sessions in order to practice using optics and for the students to become acquainted with the night sky.