Courses

A Tour of the Universe and How We Got Here

**This course is now full**

We will take a whirlwind tour of the solar system, galaxy, and universe via images obtained from earth, orbiting telescopes and NASA missions. Then, we will attempt to make sense of it—with a narrative, based on modern scientific evidence—as to how the universe began, with the sun and earth emerging from it. Weather permitting, we will include direct observation of relevant objects through the 20-inch Clark Refractor of Van Vleck Observatory. The course is non-mathematical and suitable for any level of science background. The only pre-requisites are curiosity and an open mind. Dinner will be provided.

Instructor: Bill Herbst

Tuesday, March 28, 2017

3–9 P.M.

Usdan University Center Room 110 $110

Limited to 14 students

**This course is now full**

Bill Herbst is the John Monroe Van Vleck professor of astronomy at Wesleyan University, where he has taught since 1978. He received degrees in astrophysics and astronomy from Princeton and the University of Toronto. He has been a researcher at the Carnegie Institution of Washington in Washington, D.C. and, for decades, has served as a consultant to the National Science Foundation and NASA. His research interests are in the origins of the Earth and planetary systems and he has authored or co-authored more than 300 articles in scientific journals. He has also received a Binswanger award from the Wesleyan Alumni Association for excellence in teaching.