Two students and a professor work in a campus physics lab

Physics is the fundamental natural science. At its simplest, it is the study of energy and matter, their interactions, and their motion through space and time. At Carleton, students can explore many different aspects of physics, including Newtonian mechanics, atomic and nuclear physics, thermodynamics, optics, and electricity & magnetism. Astronomy, inseparably linked with Physics, can have particular appeal for those who wonder about the universe on a grand scale.

Whether investigating elementary particles or surveying galactic superclusters, the broad scope of courses and research opportunities at Carleton gives Physics and Astronomy students a well-rounded understanding of the physical world and how things in it work.

Two students and a professor work in a campus physics lab

About Physics and Astronomy

Consonant with the liberal arts nature of Carleton, our department serves not only physics and astronomy majors but also other science majors requiring a background in physics or astronomy, and non-science majors desiring an introduction to these subjects. We have goals for the knowledge we would like students to acquire, the skills they should master, and the experiences they should have in learning and doing physics.

Some of the general skills include:

  • The ability to communicate clearly in written work and oral presentation
  • The ability to work collaboratively with their peers
  • The ability to continue learning on a largely independent basis

More specific skills include:

  • Logical problem-solving and mathematical analysis
  • Experimental design and the use of measurement apparatus, and
  • The use of computers for modeling physical phenomena and for data acquisition and analysis

Requirements for the Physics Major

Prospective physics majors are strongly encouraged to begin their study of physics and mathematics in the first year. Physics courses are somewhat sequential and are developed in close association with mathematics courses. The curriculum provides an excellent basis for many post-Carleton career paths, including teaching, medicine, working in industry, and graduate study in physics, astronomy, and in various fields of engineering.

Most first-year students considering a major in physics will take either two 5-week courses (Physics 131 AND Physics 151) or one 10-week course (Physics 143 or Physics 144). Although taught from slightly different perspectives, the two 5-week courses or the 10-week course will cover fundamental topics in Newtonian mechanics and special relativity that prepare students for further work in physics and related fields. We also offer a section of Physics 142 with problem solving that is taught in the spring term. This section provides additional problem-solving instruction and is appropriate for students who could benefit from additional support in the study of college-level physics.

Required courses, 72 credits total (48 in Physics and Astronomy, 24 in Mathematics)

Introduction to mechanics and relativity with a lab. (6 credits):

  • PHYS 131: Introduction to Physics: Newtonian Mechanics and Lab
  • PHYS 142: Physical Systems: Mechanics and Relativity with Problem Solving and Lab
  • PHYS 143: Physical Systems: Mechanics and Relativity and Lab
  • PHYS 144: Astrophysical Systems: Mechanics and Relativity and Lab
  • PHYS 151: Introduction to Physics: Relativity and Particles and Lab

If PHYS 131: Introduction to Physics: Newtonian Mechanics and Lab and PHYS 151: Introduction to Physics: Relativity and Particles and Lab, both three credit courses are required.

Three core courses at the 200-level (18 credits):

  • PHYS 228: Atomic and Nuclear Physics and Lab
  • PHYS 231: Analytical and Computational Mechanics
  • PHYS 235: Electricity and Magnetism and Lab

One course at the 300-level that is theory-focused. (6 credits):

  • PHYS 335: Quantum Mechanics
  • PHYS 346: Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics
  • PHYS 352: Advanced Electricity and Magnetism

One course at the 300-level that is laboratory-focused. (6 credits):

  • PHYS 342: Contemporary Experimental Physics and Lab
  • PHYS 343: Electronics and Lab (not offered 2024-25)
  • PHYS 344: Classical and Quantum Optics
  • PHYS 345: Advanced Optics

If PHYS 344: Classical and Quantum Optics and PHYS 345: Advanced Optics are used, both must be taken.

One additional 6 credit course that exposes the student to physics or astronomy related content or methods.

Normally a physics or astronomy course at the 100-,200-, or 300-level (excluding ASTR 100 (not offered 2024-25), PHYS 100 (not offered 2024-25) or ASTR 394: Directed Research in Astronomy or PHYS 394: Directed Research in Physics), so that student has a least 48 credits of Physics/Astronomy coursework. After consultation with their advisor and the department chair, a student may petition the department to count a related course from another department that addresses content related to the student’s physics or astronomy  interest. 

Comps:

  • PHYS 400: Integrative Exercise (6 credits)

Required Mathematics courses: (24 credits). Note, take either MATH 101: Calculus with Problem Solving or MATH 111: Introduction to Calculus, either MATH 210: Calculus 3 or MATH 211: Introduction to Multivariable Calculus, either MATH 232: Linear Algebra or MATH 134: Linear Algebra with Applications.

Additional courses recommended, but not required:

  • CS 111: Introduction to Computer Science
  • MATH 241: Ordinary Differential Equations
  • PHYS 123: What Physicists Do
  • PHYS 222: A Survey of Cosmology (not offered 2024-25)
  • PHYS 336: Open Quantum Systems and Quantum Information (not offered 2024-25)

Students considering graduate school in Physics are strongly encouraged to take PHYS 335: Quantum Mechanics, PHYS 346: Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics and PHYS 352: Advanced Electricity and Magnetism.

Major Under Combined Plan in Engineering:

In addition to completing the requirements for the physics major listed above, the student should also take the following courses required for admission to our partner institution, Washington University: MATH 241: Ordinary Differential Equations, CHEM 123: Principles of Chemistry I & Lab, and CS 111: Introduction to Computer Science. See also detailed guidance for those planning to attend Washington University.

Physics Courses

  • PHYS 123 What Physicists Do

    A program of five lectures by invited speakers that is intended to give students some perspective on the kinds of work done by people with a physics background. Visitors from industry, government, business, and research and educational institutions will discuss their work and work-related experiences. The abstracts for the talks can be found at https://www.carleton.edu/physics-astronomy/phys-12 3-speaker-series/.

    • Spring 2025
    • S/CR/NC
    • 1
    • No Exploration

    • Student has completed any of the following course(s): One 6 credit Introductory Physics (131-165) course or Two 3 credit Introductory Physics (131-165) courses with a grade of C- or better.
    • CL: 100 level PHYS Addl Recommended
    • Marty Baylor 🏫 👤

  • PHYS 131 Introduction to Physics: Newtonian Mechanics and Lab

    A traditional introduction to classical mechanics using the Newtonian worldview. The kinematics and dynamics of some simple systems are investigated using Newton’s laws, vector analysis, and the conservation laws of momentum and energy. Comfort with algebra and the integration and differentiation of elementary functions is assumed. Weekly laboratory work.

  • PHYS 142 Physical Systems: Mechanics and Relativity with Problem Solving and Lab

    This course begins with an introduction to classical mechanics using the Newtonian worldview. Descriptions of motion and change in motion of some simple systems at human speeds are investigated using Newton’s laws, vector analysis, and the conservation laws of momentum and energy. The course moves beyond the Newtonian framework to consider a relativistic framework where time and space are intertwined and explores the motion of objects whose speeds approach the speed of light. Comfort with algebra and the integration and differentiation of elementary functions is assumed. Weekly laboratory work.  This section of introductory physics with problem solving is periodically offered for students who wish to further develop their general analytical and critical thinking skills. The smaller section will have additional class meetings for problem solving and review. PHYS 142 is appropriate for students who would like to have more scheduled time to work with a faculty member on developing their scientific reasoning skills and understanding of the foundations of physics.  

    • Spring 2025
    • 6
    • LS, Science with Lab QRE, Quantitative Reasoning

    • Student has completed completed any of the following course(s): MATH 101 – Calculus with Problem Solving or MATH 111 – Introduction to Calculus or greater with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 4 or better on the Calculus AB AP Exam or received a score of 4 or better on the Calculus BC AP exam or has received a score of 5 or better on the Calculus IB exam or equivalents AND has NOT taken PHYS 131 – Introduction to Physics: Newtonian Mechanics and Lab , PHYS 144 – Astrophysical Systems: Mechanics and Relativity and Lab, PHYS 145 – Mechanics and Waves and Lab or PHYS 151 – Introduction to Physics: Relativity and Particles and Lab. PHYS 142 and PHYS 143 are equivalent courses, if you have taken one you cannot register for the other.
    • CL: 100 level PHYS Intro Mech and Relativity
    • Chris West 🏫 👤

  • PHYS 143 Physical Systems: Mechanics and Relativity and Lab

    This course begins with an introduction to classical mechanics using the Newtonian worldview. Descriptions of motion and change in motion of some simple systems at human speeds are investigated using Newton’s laws, vector analysis, and the conservation laws of momentum and energy. The course moves beyond the Newtonian framework to consider a relativistic framework where time and space are intertwined and explores the motion of objects whose speeds approach the speed of light. Comfort with algebra and the integration and differentiation of elementary functions is assumed. Weekly laboratory work.

    • Winter 2025
    • 6
    • LS, Science with Lab QRE, Quantitative Reasoning

    • Student has completed completed any of the following course(s): MATH 101 – Calculus with Problem Solving or MATH 111 – Introduction to Calculus or greater with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 4 or better on the Calculus AB AP Exam or received a score of 4 or better on the Calculus BC AP exam or has received a score of 5 or better on the Calculus IB exam or equivalents AND has NOT taken PHYS 131 – Introduction to Physics: Newtonian Mechanics and Lab , PHYS 144 – Astrophysical Systems: Mechanics and Relativity and Lab, PHYS 145 – Mechanics and Waves and Lab or PHYS 151 – Introduction to Physics: Relativity and Particles and Lab. PHYS 142 and PHYS 143 are equivalent courses, if you have taken one you cannot register for the other.
    • CL: 100 level PHYS Intro Mech and Relativity
    • Seth Kimbrell 🏫 👤

  • PHYS 144 Astrophysical Systems: Mechanics and Relativity and Lab

    This course begins by reviewing Newtonian mechanics, with applications of vector analysis and the concepts of momentum and energy to large-scale gravitational phenomena in the universe. The course moves beyond the Newtonian framework to consider a relativistic framework where time and space are intertwined and explores the motion of objects whose speeds approach the speed of light. Comfort with algebra and the integration and differentiation of elementary functions is assumed. Weekly laboratory work.

  • PHYS 145 Mechanics and Waves and Lab

    This course begins with the study of the motion of objects on the human scale using Newton’s laws. The course provides the foundation for the study of conservation of energy and momentum, waves, and fluids. Biologic, medical, chemical, nuclear, and geologic applications may be considered. Comfort with algebra and the integration and differentiation of elementary functions is assumed. Weekly laboratory work.

    • Spring 2025
    • 6
    • LS, Science with Lab QRE, Quantitative Reasoning

    • Student has completed completed any of the following course(s): MATH 101 – Calculus with Problem Solving or MATH 111 – Introduction to Calculus or greater with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 4 or better on the Calculus AB AP exam or received a score of 4 or better on the Calculus BC exam or received a score of 5 or better on the Calculus IB exam or equivalent AND has NOT taken PHYS 131 – Introduction to Physics: Newtonian Mechanics and Lab, PHYS 142 – Matter and Interactions and Lab, PHYS 143 – Physical Systems: Mechanics and Relativity and Lab or PHYS 144 – Astrophysical Systems: Mechanics and Relativity and Lab.
    • CL: 100 level
    • Jonathan Trevathan 🏫 👤

  • PHYS 151 Introduction to Physics: Relativity and Particles and Lab

    An introduction to principles of physics in the realm of the very small and very fast. The course provides an introduction to special relativity where time and space are intertwined and explores the motion of objects whose speeds approach the speed of light. Comfort with algebra and the integration and differentiation of elementary functions is assumed. Weekly laboratory work.

    • Fall 2024
    • 3
    • LS, Science with Lab QRE, Quantitative Reasoning

    • Student has completed or in the process of completing any of the following course(s): MATH 101 – Calculus with Problem Solving or MATH 111 – Introduction to Calculus or greater or better or received a score of 4 or better on the Calculus AB AP exam or received a score of 4 or better on the Calculus BC AP exam or received a score of 5 or better on the Calculus IB exam or equivalent AND PHYS 131 – Introduction to Physics: Newtonian Mechanics and Lab AND has NOT taken PHYS 142 – Matter and Interactions and Lab or PHYS 143 – Physical Systems: Mechanics and Relativity and Lab or PHYS 144 – Astrophysical Systems: Mechanics and Relativity and Lab.
    • CL: 100 level PHYS Intro Mech and Relativity
    • Chris West 🏫 👤

  • PHYS 152 Introduction to Physics: Environmental Physics and Lab

    An introduction to principles of physics and their application to the environment. Topics include energy and its flows, engines, energy efficiency, energy usage and conservation in vehicles and buildings, the atmosphere, and climate change. Comfort with algebra and the integration and differentiation of elementary functions is assumed. Weekly laboratory work or field trips.

    • Fall 2024
    • 3
    • LS, Science with Lab QRE, Quantitative Reasoning

    • Student has completed or is in the process of completing any of the following course(s): MATH 101 – Calculus with Problem Solving or MATH 111 – Introduction to Calculus or greater or received a score of 4 or better on the Calculus AB AP exam or received a score of 4 or better on the Calculus BC AP exam or received a score of 5 or better on the Calculus IB exam AND PHYS 131 – Introduction to Physics: Newtonian Mechanics and Lab OR has completed PHYS 142 – Matter and Interactions and Lab, PHYS 143 – Physical Systems: Mechanics and Relativity and Lab, PHYS 144 – Astrophysical Systems: Mechanics and Relativity and Lab or PHYS 145 – Mechanics and Waves and Lab with grade of C- or better.
    • CL: 100 level ENTS Introductory
    • Seth Kimbrell 🏫 👤

  • PHYS 165 Introduction to Electricity, Magnetism, and Optics and Lab

    A study of the principles of electricity, magnetism, and optics with an emphasis on real-world applications to areas such as electronics, medicine, or materials science. Topics include electric and magnetic fields, electric potentials, DC and AC circuits and geometric and wave optics. Designed for science majors who want additional background in physics. Comfort with algebra and the integration and differentiation of elementary functions is assumed. One laboratory per week.

    • Winter 2025
    • 6
    • LS, Science with Lab QRE, Quantitative Reasoning

    • Student has completed any of the following course(s): PHYS 131 – Introduction to Physics: Newtonian Mechanics and Lab, PHYS 142 – Matter and Interactions and Lab, PHYS 143 – Physical Systems: Mechanics and Relativity and Lab, PHYS 144 – Astrophysical Systems: Mechanics and Relativity and Lab or PHYS 145 – Mechanics and Waves and Lab with a grade of C- or better AND MATH 101 – Calculus and Problem Solving or MATH 111– Introduction to Calculus or greater with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 4 or better on the Calculus AB AP exam or received a score of 4 or better on the Calculus BC AP exam or received a score of 5 or better on the Calculus IB exam or equivalent.
    • CL: 100 level
    • Jonathan Trevathan 🏫 👤

  • PHYS 222 A Survey of Cosmology

    A detailed survey of selected topics in cosmology. Topics might include the Friedmann equation, fluid and acceleration equations, basic metrics, evolution of single and multi-component universes, cosmological parameters, dark matter, baryogenesis/leptogenesis, the cosmic microwave background radiation, nucleosynthesis, inflation, and structure formation. All topics will be covered assuming only intro level physics as prerequisite.

    Not offered in 2024-25

  • PHYS 228 Atomic and Nuclear Physics and Lab

    An introduction to quantum mechanics and select applications that explore physics in the realm of the very small world or atoms and nuclei. Topics include wave-like and particle-like behavior of both light and matter, behavior of particles in confined spaces, material properties of solids, radioactive decay, and experimental techniques and instrumentation for exploring these optical, atomic, and nuclear processes. One laboratory per week.

    • Fall 2024
    • 6
    • LS, Science with Lab QRE, Quantitative Reasoning

    • Student has completed any of the following course(s): Math 120 – Calculus 2 or greater with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 4 or better on the Calculus BC AP exam or equivalent AND the student has completed any of the following course(s): PHYS 142 – Matter and Interactions and Lab, PHYS 143 – Physical Systems or PHYS 144 Astrophysical Systems or PHYS 151 – Introduction to Physics: Relativity and Particles and Lab with a grade of C- or better.
    • CL: 200 level PHYS 200-level Core
    • Barry Costanzi 🏫 👤 · Jay Tasson 🏫 👤

  • PHYS 231 Analytical and Computational Mechanics

    An analytical and computational treatment of classical mechanics and dynamics. We start from a reconsideration of complicated Newtonian problems and also develop the Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formalism of classical mechanics. A variety of systems, including some whose equations of motion cannot be solved analytically, will be explored. Possible examples include harmonic oscillators, central-force problems, chaotic dynamics, astrophysical systems, and medieval siege engines.

  • PHYS 232 Astrophysics I

    A study of stellar structure and evolution with an emphasis on the physical principles underlying the observed phenomena. Topics include the birth, evolution, and death of stars, pulsars, black holes, and white dwarfs.

    Not offered in 2024-25

  • PHYS 233 Astrophysics II

    A study of galactic and extragalactic astronomy with an emphasis on the physical principles underlying the observed phenomena. Topics include the structure and dynamics of the Milky Way Galaxy and other galaxies, the interstellar medium, quasars and active galaxies, clusters and superclusters, and cosmology.

  • PHYS 234 Computer Simulations in Complex Physical Systems

    The development of techniques to study complex physical systems from a probabilistic and numerical standpoint, focused on cellular automata models. Subject material is applicable to all the sciences and mathematics. Some topics considered are random walks, percolation clusters, avalanches, traffic flow, the spread of forest fires and diseases, and a brief introduction to Bayesian statistics. No computer programming skills are assumed.

  • PHYS 235 Electricity and Magnetism and Lab

    Electric and magnetic fields in free space, and their interactions with charges and currents. Topics include electric fields and magnetic fields of various charge and current distributions, induction, DC and AC circuits and Maxwell’s equations. Weekly laboratory work explores course content in more practical detail.

  • PHYS 251 Theory and Applications of Remote Sensing

    Remote sensing – interpreting information about physical systems at a distance using the electromagnetic spectrum – enables scientists to monitor climate change, detect material resources, track urban develoment, or map the surface of other planets, among a host of other applications. This course will explore key satellite remote sensing methods, such as visible and thermal imagery, visible through mid-infrared spectroscopy, radar, gamma ray and neutron spectroscopy, and laser altimetry, introducing both the physical theory and practical data analysis techniques.

    Not offered in 2024-25

  • PHYS 294 Directed Research in Physics

    Students work on a research project related to a faculty member's research interests, and directed by that faculty member. Student activities vary according to the field and stage of the project. The long-run goal of these projects normally includes dissemination to a scholarly community beyond Carleton. The faculty member will meet regularly with the student and actively direct the work of the student, who will submit an end-of-term product, typically a paper or presentation.

  • PHYS 312 Astronomical Detection and Measurement

    A study of astronomical detection and measurement across the electromagnetic spectrum, encompassing both the underlying physical principles and their application. Building on a foundation of radiometry, optics, and measurement statistics, this course will explore the design and function of modern electromagnetic measurement systems. Possible topics include high-dispersion spectroscopy, spatial interferometry, and the analysis of sensitivity and noise in electromagnetic detection for coherent and incoherent detectors.

  • PHYS 333 Survey of Particle and Nuclear Physics

    A detailed survey of selected topics in particle and nuclear physics. Particle physics topics might include the Standard Model interactions and mediators, Feynman diagrams, symmetries and tests of conservation laws, Dirac equation and possibly QED Feynman rules. Nuclear physics topics might include the Liquid Drop, Fermi Gas, and Shell models of the nucleus, discussion of radiation, energy deposition in media, and discussion of quantum chromodynamics. Fluency in multi-variable calculus is expected.

    Not offered in 2024-25

    • 6
    • No Exploration

    • Student has completed any of the following course(s): PHYS 235 with a grade of C- or better AND has completed or is in the process of completing PHYS 335 with a grade of C- or better.
    • CL: 300 level

  • PHYS 335 Quantum Mechanics

    An examination of the structure of non-relativistic quantum mechanics and how this theory differs from those of classical physics. Topics include the mathematics of Hilbert space, the postulates of quantum mechanics, the motion of a particle in one dimension (including the free particle and the simple harmonic oscillator), the Heisenberg uncertainty principle, and spin. Multidimensional applications will include the harmonic oscillator, the hydrogen atom. Approximation techniques and applications will be presented.

  • PHYS 336 Open Quantum Systems and Quantum Information

    An introduction to composite quantum systems, quantum entanglement, and open quantum systems. Topics include treatment of composite and reduced density matrices and the dynamics of decoherence via the Lindblad dynamical equation, as well as quantum circuits and quantum information theoretic applications including quantum cryptography and teleportation and a consideration of quantum algorithms that improve upon classical computing. We will also discuss experimental implementation and quantum error correction appropriate for real-world applications.

    Not offered in 2024-25

  • PHYS 341 Waves

    The analysis of wave phenomena, including normal mode expansions, the wave equation and boundary value problems, and interference, diffraction, dispersion, and polarization. Applications are made to mechanical, sound, water and electromagnetic waves with particular emphasis on both the unifying principles across all wave phenomena, as well as the nuances of particular types of waves.

  • PHYS 342 Contemporary Experimental Physics and Lab

    A study of experimental techniques and apparatus basic to the measurements which underlie and validate contemporary theories in physics. Topics include electrical measurements, data analysis and statistics, optical and laser techniques, particle detectors, and time coincidence techniques. Applications are made to experiments such as magnetic resonance, Mossbauer and nuclear spectroscopy and laser optics. Class time is devoted to studying the measurement techniques and considering phenomenological models of the effects observed in the laboratory. One laboratory per week.

  • PHYS 343 Electronics and Lab

    A study of the electrical circuits and electronics underlying modern physics instrumentation. Includes an introduction to microprocessor and microcomputer design. Approximately equal emphasis on analog and digital electronics. One laboratory per week.

    During registration, students will register for both the lecture and a corresponding lab section, which will appear on the student's academic transcript in a single entry.

    Not offered in 2024-25

  • PHYS 344 Classical and Quantum Optics

    A junior/senior level course in classical and quantum optics. Includes the phenomena of interference, diffraction and coherence and quantum optical applications, such as unique statistical states of light or the operation of a laser. Modern applications of these areas are studied through such topics as fiber optics telecommunication, optical data storage, or manipulation of atoms by light.

  • PHYS 345 Advanced Optics

    This is a laboratory course that will serve as a follow-up to Physics 344, Classical and Quantum Optics. Students will conduct a number of experiments pertaining to optical phenomena. The experiments will display effects pertaining to classical, quantum, and non-linear optics. The lab will take place once a week for four hours each session.

  • PHYS 346 Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics

    The fundamentals of classical thermodynamics and statistical mechanics. Topics include the laws of thermodynamics; heat engines and refrigerators; the Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution; the various canonical distributions; the statistical concepts of temperature and entropy; Fermi-Dirac, and Bose-Einstein distributions with applications to black-body radiation, phonons, and electrons in solids; the Ising model; and an introduction to critical phenomena.

  • PHYS 352 Advanced Electricity and Magnetism

    The course introduces techniques for applying electromagnetic theory to charge and current distributions beyond what is covered in prior Electricity and Magnetism courses. Additional topics include applications to Maxwell's equations, radiation, and relativity. Recommended preparation: MATH 341.

  • PHYS 354 Solid State Physics

    An introduction to the physics of solids. Particular attention is paid to the properties exhibited by atoms and molecules because of their association and regular periodic arrangement in crystals. Topics include crystal structure and diffraction, the reciprocal lattice, phonons and lattice vibrations, thermal properties, free-electron theory and band structure.

    Not offered in 2024-25

  • PHYS 355 Topics in Advanced Classical Mechanics

    Lagrangian and Hamiltonian methods including central force motion, coupled harmonic oscillators, and the study of continuous systems. Additional subjects may include fluid dynamics, classical field theory or other specialized topics.

    Not offered in 2024-25

  • PHYS 394 Directed Research in Physics

    Mesoscale square permalloy particles experience interesting size-dependent ferromagnetism, where the magnetic dipoles arrange into different configurational states under an applied magnetic field and at zero field depending on slight changes in their size. To study these size-dependent effects, I will sputter thin films onto small chips and then characterize their magnetism via four-terminal magnetoresistance measurements.

  • PHYS 400 Integrative Exercise

    An extensive study of a specific topic in physics, culminating in a 60-minute presentation during winter or spring term and a 7500 word paper. Students may arrange to complete the bulk of their work during winter or spring term (Physics 400, 6 credits), or divide their effort between terms (Physics 400, winter, 3 credits; Physics 400, spring, 3 credits).

Astronomy Courses

  • ASTR 110 Introduction to Astronomy & Lab

    An introduction to current astronomy with an emphasis on how we know what we know. Topics include the solar system; the life cycles of stars; pulsars, quasars, and black holes; and the history and future fate of the universe. No mathematics background beyond high school algebra and trigonometry is assumed.

  • ASTR 113 Observational Astronomy

    Theory and practice of basic techniques in observational and laboratory astronomy. Certain problems involve the use of the 16-inch and 8-inch telescopes.

  • ASTR 232 Astrophysics I

    A study of stellar structure and evolution with an emphasis on the physical principles underlying the observed phenomena. Topics include the birth, evolution, and death of stars, pulsars, black holes, and white dwarfs.

    Not offered in 2024-25

  • ASTR 233 Astrophysics II

    A study of galactic and extragalactic astronomy with an emphasis on the physical principles underlying the observed phenomena. Topics include the structure and dynamics of the Milky Way Galaxy and other galaxies, the interstellar medium, quasars and active galaxies, clusters and superclusters, and cosmology.

  • ASTR 294 Directed Research in Astronomy

    Students work on a research project related to a faculty member's research interests, and directed by that faculty member. Student activities vary according to the field and stage of the project. The long-run goal of these projects normally includes dissemination to a scholarly community beyond Carleton. The faculty member will meet regularly with the student and actively direct the work of the student, who will submit an end-of-term product, typically a paper or presentation.

  • ASTR 394 Directed Research in Astronomy

    Analysis of stellar spectra obtained with the Habitable Zone Planet Finder spectrometer. The aim is to establish high-precision methods for measuring the line strength absorption lines in the spectra of M dwarf stars, in order to track their rotational phase and magnetic field configuration. Current work is focused on proving out a normalization technique for correcting out the influence of changes in the instrumental transmission function.