Douglas Byrd High – Astronomy Honors

Apr 2026 · 2nd Semester

Co-requisite: Physics or Chemistry         Credit: 1 unit, Weight: +.5 This course explores the solar system and the wider cosmos. Students gain a sense of our place in the Universe and how that understanding has changed over time. Key topics covered include the history of astronomy, how objects move in space, and the fundamental laws of motion from figures such as Kepler and Newton. Students will learn about everything from coordinate systems and telescopes to the formation of galaxies and stars. The class emphasizes critical thinking and active learning through hands-on labs, group activities, simulations, and technology. A core part of the course involves using online tools and the night sky itself to make weekly observations of the moon, stars, and planets. By the end of the course, students will have a strong, personal understanding of the cosmos and the scientific methods used to study it. MARINE SCIENCE HONORS