Study Guide for Test #1

Links to the Reading Material

Introduction

The Scientific Method

Why Study Astronomy?

Naked Eye Astronomy

Astronomical Events this Semester

Mapping the Sky

The Changing Sky - Rotation

The Changing Sky - Revolution

The Changing Sky - Precession

Celestial Navigation

Angles and Parallax

Greek Astronomy - The Earth

Greek Astronomy - The Universe

Renaissance Astronomy - Copernicus

 

Know these Greek astronomers and their greatest accomplishments.

Pythagoras
Aristotle
Aristarchus
Eratosthenes
Hipparchus
Ptolemy

Copernicus

Key Terms

astronomical unit (AU)
autumnal equinox
celestial equator
celestial poles
celestial sphere
circumpolar stars
configuration
conjunction
declination
diurnal motion
ecliptic
elongation
epicycle
First Point of Aries
geocentric
heliocentric
inferior planet
local horizon
meridian (celestial)
opposition
parallax
Polaris
precession (of equinoxes)
retrograde motion
revolve
right ascension
rotate
scientific method
sidereal period

summer solstice
superior planet
synodic period
vernal equinox
winter solstice
zenith
zodiac

Before you take unit #1 test, please try practice quiz #1  This practice quiz has no point value, but gives you a chance to see typical test questions and gauge if you are really ready to take the test.

Once you have taken practice quiz #1 and feel you are ready ... take Test #1

ŠJim Mihal 2004, 2014, 2016 all rights reserved