Frontiers of Astrophysics · Astronomy
As a social science major, I learned a ton about Astrophysics. This class made a lot of dense material accessible to me and I enjoyed going to class friday mornings.
Current research topics in Astrophysics from leading researchers in the field
Some basic intro stuff into astronomy and space concerning what specific researchers came in and lectured for us. Very good for just absorbing and learning intro astronomy.
There were some cool topics and lectures. It's mostly introductory topics, especially in the beginning, but there are a few higher level (but still accessible) lectures later on
Attend weekly lectures. Write one small paper. Class is P/F
I learned a variety about astrophysics: exoplanets, search for life, galaxies, dark matter, spectroscopy, GAIA data, etc
I learned a lot about very in depth topics in astrophysics, and the research interests of many columbia faculty members.
This class gave me exposure to a breadth of subfields within astrophysics, including high energy astro, galaxies, exoplanets and astrobiology, gravitational waves, Solar System astro, planets, and climate and astrophysics
Prof. Halpern obviously loves what he does. His knowledge of the field is apparent. This class is a great opportunity to learn a little bit more about what, exactly, astronomers do. Most of the course is conducted as a series of weekly guest lecturers. Some of the material is quite technical, but you do not have to have much background in the subject to take the class. I would recommend it to anyone who is unsure about majoring in astronomy/astrophysics, or anyone who is curious about the work of faculty members.
All sorts of topics related to astrophysics, taught by experts in their respective fields.