(1.25 units)

An integrated lecture and laboratory course covering the techniques of observational astronomy. Topics covered in the lectures include celestial coordinates, spherical trigonometry, the mathematics of image processing, and the theory behind various astronomical instruments and detectors. Laboratory sessions will be conducted at Perkins Observatory, and will introduce the student to astronomical CCD imaging, photometry, and spectroscopy. Prerequisite:PHYS 280 L or permission of instructor. Alternate years.