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IKS 2

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IKS 2

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Astronomy

Introduction
Definition of Astronomy:

 The word Astronomy is derived from the greek word, "Astron" meaning, "Star" and "Nomy", is derived
from the word, "Nomos" means, "Law or Culture”.
 Astronomy is a, "Law or Culture of Stars".
 Astronomy is a natural science, that is the study of Celestial objects- planets, stars, moons, nabulae and
galaxies. The physics, chemistry, mathematics of evolutions of such objects outside the earth's
atmoshphere.

Early Astronomers:

 Astronomer - Astronomers use the principles of physics and mathematics to learn about the
fundamental nature of the universe, including the sun, moon, planets, stars.
 Nicholas Copernicus - (1473-1543) the first astronomer to teach that the sun (not the Earth) was
the center of the solar system.
 Galileo Galilei - built the first telescope in 1609 and proved Copernicus correct.

Astronomical Unit:

 The distance from Earth to the Sun is one Astronomical Unit.


 The A.U. helps make the vast distances in our Solar System more manageable.
 Anything closer than Earth is a fraction of an A.U.
 Anything further away is a multiple of an A.U.

Light Year:
A light year is a unit of distance, NOT a unit of time.
 A light minute and a light second are units related to the light year.
 A light minute is equal to 17,987,547 kilometers.
 A light second is equal to 299,793 kilometers.
 The Moon is 1.2 light seconds away from Earth.

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Astronomy

Methods of Astronomy
 Observation: Collecting data through telescopes, space missions, or other instruments.

 Data analysis: Processing and interpreting collected data using software and statistical techniques.

 Hypothesis testing: Formulating hypotheses based on observations and testing them against existing
theories or new data.

 Modeling: Creating theoretical models to explain phenomena and predict future observations.

Advantages of Astronomy

 Expanding human knowledge: They contribute to our understanding of the universe, its origins, and
its mysteries.
 Cutting-edge technology: Astronomers work with advanced telescopes, spacecraft, and computational
tools.
 Global collaboration: They often collaborate with international teams, sharing discoveries and insights.
 Inspiring future generations: Astronomers can inspire young people to pursue careers in science,
technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
 Diverse research opportunities: Astronomy encompasses various subfields, such as planetary science,
astrophysics, and cosmology.
 Potential for groundbreaking discoveries: Astronomers may uncover new phenomena, planets, or
insights into the universe's nature.
Famous Astronomer
Galileo Galilei:

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Astronomy

Galileo Galilei significantly advanced astronomy through his use of the telescope. He meticulously observed
and documented the lunar surface, the phases of Venus, and the four largest moons of Jupiter (now known
as the Galilean moons). He also observed sunspots, refuting the long-held belief that the heavens were
perfect and unchanging. These observations, documented in his book Sidereus Nuncius (The Sidereal
Messenger), provided crucial evidence supporting the heliocentric model of the solar system, where the sun
is at the center, and challenged the geocentric model that placed Earth at the center.
Conclusion Summary:

Astronomy, the scientific study of celestial objects, is a fascinating and ever-evolving field that has
captivated humanity for millennia, offering insights into the universe's origins, structure, and evolution.
It continues to inspire exploration, discovery, and a deeper understanding of our place in the cosmos.

Web Link
https://youtu.be/d9k1as9prMY?si=vfUuf1G3c2dWk6f3
Astronomy on YouTube offers a wide range of content, including educational videos, stargazing tips, and
news on astronomical events. Channels like Crash Course Astronomy and Deep Astronomy provide
engaging and informative content, making astronomy accessible to a broad audience. NASA's YouTube
channel showcases its missions, discoveries, and space exploration efforts. With the vast array of content
available, YouTube is an excellent platform for anyone interested in learning about astronomy and staying
up-to-date on the latest developments in the field.

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