Undergraduate Program

Fall Term Schedule, Astronomy

Fall 2025

Number	Title	Instructor	Time
ASTR 104-01 Solar System Adam Frank TR 2:00PM - 3:15PM
This course, for non-science majors, focuses on the solar system, planets orbiting other stars and the possibility that life may exist on some of those worlds. Topics include the history and basic physics of our understanding of the solar system, the origin of planetary systems like the solar system, the nature of the 8 planets and other bodies in our solar system, how we detect planets orbiting other stars and the origin and possibilities for life on planets. The class will also include readings and discussion of climate change as a planetary phenomenon. Calculus is not needed for the course. The class will also include the use of a video game intended to help teach basic concepts in solar system science. Location (TR 2:00PM - 3:15PM)
ASTR 104-02 Solar System Adam Frank W 2:00PM - 4:40PM
This course, for non-science majors, focuses on the solar system, planets orbiting other stars and the possibility that life may exist on some of those worlds. Topics include the history and basic physics of our understanding of the solar system, the origin of planetary systems like the solar system, the nature of the 8 planets and other bodies in our solar system, how we detect planets orbiting other stars and the origin and possibilities for life on planets. The class will also include readings and discussion of climate change as a planetary phenomenon. Calculus is not needed for the course. The class will also include the use of a video game intended to help teach basic concepts in solar system science. Location (W 2:00PM - 4:40PM)
ASTR 104-03 Solar System Adam Frank R 4:50PM - 6:05PM
This course, for non-science majors, focuses on the solar system, planets orbiting other stars and the possibility that life may exist on some of those worlds. Topics include the history and basic physics of our understanding of the solar system, the origin of planetary systems like the solar system, the nature of the 8 planets and other bodies in our solar system, how we detect planets orbiting other stars and the origin and possibilities for life on planets. The class will also include readings and discussion of climate change as a planetary phenomenon. Calculus is not needed for the course. The class will also include the use of a video game intended to help teach basic concepts in solar system science. Location (R 4:50PM - 6:05PM)
ASTR 111-01 The Solar System & Its Origin Kelly O'Neill TR 11:05AM - 12:20PM
A study of the structure and composition of the individual planets and smaller solar-system bodies; the orbital dynamics and overall structure of the Solar system and its contents; exoplanets; and the formation of planetary systems like ours. Designed for first-years who intend to major in science or engineering, the course involves the use of skills learned in mathematics and physics courses taken concurrently or in high school, such as single-variable calculus, Newton's laws of motion and gravity, and the ideal-gas law. The course includes a night-time observing project using the Mees Observatory 24-inch telescope and its large-format CCD cameras. Location (TR 11:05AM - 12:20PM)
ASTR 111-02 The Solar System & Its Origin Kelly O'Neill F 2:00PM - 4:40PM
A study of the structure and composition of the individual planets and smaller solar-system bodies; the orbital dynamics and overall structure of the Solar system and its contents; exoplanets; and the formation of planetary systems like ours. Designed for first-years who intend to major in science or engineering, the course involves the use of skills learned in mathematics and physics courses taken concurrently or in high school, such as single-variable calculus, Newton's laws of motion and gravity, and the ideal-gas law. The course includes a night-time observing project using the Mees Observatory 24-inch telescope and its large-format CCD cameras. Location (F 2:00PM - 4:40PM)
ASTR 111-03 The Solar System & Its Origin Kelly O'Neill R 2:00PM - 4:40PM
A study of the structure and composition of the individual planets and smaller solar-system bodies; the orbital dynamics and overall structure of the Solar system and its contents; exoplanets; and the formation of planetary systems like ours. Designed for first-years who intend to major in science or engineering, the course involves the use of skills learned in mathematics and physics courses taken concurrently or in high school, such as single-variable calculus, Newton's laws of motion and gravity, and the ideal-gas law. The course includes a night-time observing project using the Mees Observatory 24-inch telescope and its large-format CCD cameras. Location (R 2:00PM - 4:40PM)
ASTR 111-04 The Solar System & Its Origin Kelly O'Neill R 6:15PM - 8:55PM
A study of the structure and composition of the individual planets and smaller solar-system bodies; the orbital dynamics and overall structure of the Solar system and its contents; exoplanets; and the formation of planetary systems like ours. Designed for first-years who intend to major in science or engineering, the course involves the use of skills learned in mathematics and physics courses taken concurrently or in high school, such as single-variable calculus, Newton's laws of motion and gravity, and the ideal-gas law. The course includes a night-time observing project using the Mees Observatory 24-inch telescope and its large-format CCD cameras. Location (R 6:15PM - 8:55PM)
ASTR 243-01 Astrophysical Fluid Dynamics Alice Quillen MW 12:30PM - 1:45PM
An Introduction to Astrophysical Fluid Dynamics. This class explores topics in astrophysics while giving a solid foundation in the fundamentals of fluid mechanics. We introduce the theory of the motion of gases and fluids necessary to understand and explore a wide range of astronomical phenomena including stellar structure, supernovae blast waves and accretion discs. We will cover ideal fluid mechanics, Eulerian and Lagrangian views, conservations laws, hydrostatic equilibrium, self-similar flows, blast waves, spherical accretion and wind flows, astrophysics shocks, viscous flows, vorticity, accretion disks, atmospheric waves, hydrodynamic instabilities, and radiative heating and cooling. We will introduce finite difference numerical techniques so that dynamics in 1 dimension can be explored numerically. At the end of the term we will explore topics of recent interest such as gamma ray bursts, astrophysical turbulence or winds from exoplanets. Prerequisites: PHYS 237 (may be taken concurrently); familiarity with the subject matter of ASTR 142 and/or ASTR 111 is advised Location (MW 12:30PM - 1:45PM)
ASTR 391-01 Independent Study – 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides undergraduate students the opportunity to pursue in-depth, independent exploration of a topic not regularly offered in the curriculum, under the supervision of a faculty member in the form of independent study, practicum, internship or research. The objectives and content are determined in consultation between students and full-time members of the teaching faculty. Responsibilities and expectations vary by course and department. Registration for Independent Study courses needs to be completed through the Independent Study Registration form (https://secure1.rochester.edu/registrar/forms/independent-study-form.php) Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
ASTR 393W-01 Senior Thesis Segev BenZvi 7:00PM - 7:00PM
Under the guidance of a faculty advisor, Seniors identify a topic, develop a project plan, conduct substantive work, and present their findings or creations in a final written report, portfolio, performance, or presentation. Responsibilities and expectations vary by course and department. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)

Number	Title	Instructor	Time
Monday and Wednesday
ASTR 243-01 Astrophysical Fluid Dynamics Alice Quillen
An Introduction to Astrophysical Fluid Dynamics. This class explores topics in astrophysics while giving a solid foundation in the fundamentals of fluid mechanics. We introduce the theory of the motion of gases and fluids necessary to understand and explore a wide range of astronomical phenomena including stellar structure, supernovae blast waves and accretion discs. We will cover ideal fluid mechanics, Eulerian and Lagrangian views, conservations laws, hydrostatic equilibrium, self-similar flows, blast waves, spherical accretion and wind flows, astrophysics shocks, viscous flows, vorticity, accretion disks, atmospheric waves, hydrodynamic instabilities, and radiative heating and cooling. We will introduce finite difference numerical techniques so that dynamics in 1 dimension can be explored numerically. At the end of the term we will explore topics of recent interest such as gamma ray bursts, astrophysical turbulence or winds from exoplanets. Prerequisites: PHYS 237 (may be taken concurrently); familiarity with the subject matter of ASTR 142 and/or ASTR 111 is advised
Tuesday and Thursday
ASTR 111-01 The Solar System & Its Origin Kelly O'Neill
A study of the structure and composition of the individual planets and smaller solar-system bodies; the orbital dynamics and overall structure of the Solar system and its contents; exoplanets; and the formation of planetary systems like ours. Designed for first-years who intend to major in science or engineering, the course involves the use of skills learned in mathematics and physics courses taken concurrently or in high school, such as single-variable calculus, Newton's laws of motion and gravity, and the ideal-gas law. The course includes a night-time observing project using the Mees Observatory 24-inch telescope and its large-format CCD cameras.
ASTR 104-01 Solar System Adam Frank
This course, for non-science majors, focuses on the solar system, planets orbiting other stars and the possibility that life may exist on some of those worlds. Topics include the history and basic physics of our understanding of the solar system, the origin of planetary systems like the solar system, the nature of the 8 planets and other bodies in our solar system, how we detect planets orbiting other stars and the origin and possibilities for life on planets. The class will also include readings and discussion of climate change as a planetary phenomenon. Calculus is not needed for the course. The class will also include the use of a video game intended to help teach basic concepts in solar system science.
Wednesday
ASTR 104-02 Solar System Adam Frank
This course, for non-science majors, focuses on the solar system, planets orbiting other stars and the possibility that life may exist on some of those worlds. Topics include the history and basic physics of our understanding of the solar system, the origin of planetary systems like the solar system, the nature of the 8 planets and other bodies in our solar system, how we detect planets orbiting other stars and the origin and possibilities for life on planets. The class will also include readings and discussion of climate change as a planetary phenomenon. Calculus is not needed for the course. The class will also include the use of a video game intended to help teach basic concepts in solar system science.
Thursday
ASTR 111-03 The Solar System & Its Origin Kelly O'Neill
A study of the structure and composition of the individual planets and smaller solar-system bodies; the orbital dynamics and overall structure of the Solar system and its contents; exoplanets; and the formation of planetary systems like ours. Designed for first-years who intend to major in science or engineering, the course involves the use of skills learned in mathematics and physics courses taken concurrently or in high school, such as single-variable calculus, Newton's laws of motion and gravity, and the ideal-gas law. The course includes a night-time observing project using the Mees Observatory 24-inch telescope and its large-format CCD cameras.
ASTR 104-03 Solar System Adam Frank
This course, for non-science majors, focuses on the solar system, planets orbiting other stars and the possibility that life may exist on some of those worlds. Topics include the history and basic physics of our understanding of the solar system, the origin of planetary systems like the solar system, the nature of the 8 planets and other bodies in our solar system, how we detect planets orbiting other stars and the origin and possibilities for life on planets. The class will also include readings and discussion of climate change as a planetary phenomenon. Calculus is not needed for the course. The class will also include the use of a video game intended to help teach basic concepts in solar system science.
ASTR 111-04 The Solar System & Its Origin Kelly O'Neill
A study of the structure and composition of the individual planets and smaller solar-system bodies; the orbital dynamics and overall structure of the Solar system and its contents; exoplanets; and the formation of planetary systems like ours. Designed for first-years who intend to major in science or engineering, the course involves the use of skills learned in mathematics and physics courses taken concurrently or in high school, such as single-variable calculus, Newton's laws of motion and gravity, and the ideal-gas law. The course includes a night-time observing project using the Mees Observatory 24-inch telescope and its large-format CCD cameras.
Friday
ASTR 111-02 The Solar System & Its Origin Kelly O'Neill
A study of the structure and composition of the individual planets and smaller solar-system bodies; the orbital dynamics and overall structure of the Solar system and its contents; exoplanets; and the formation of planetary systems like ours. Designed for first-years who intend to major in science or engineering, the course involves the use of skills learned in mathematics and physics courses taken concurrently or in high school, such as single-variable calculus, Newton's laws of motion and gravity, and the ideal-gas law. The course includes a night-time observing project using the Mees Observatory 24-inch telescope and its large-format CCD cameras.