* bring your question to Academic Fair on 5.March.2003
* or email your question to Dr. Zita.  First, be sure you are logged in as yourself so my Reply will reach you.  If you are logged in anonymously, you may not get my response!  Put ASTRO in the Subject line.

Q:  How can I get into the program?
A: Study the web pages about the program, and sign up if you feel it's the right program for you. CRN #30181 for 16 credits. There is no pretest and no signature requirement.

Q:  When do we meet?
A:  Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Seminar in Lib 2221 at 5:00 and Astronomy class in the CAL at 7:00. Check the Syllabus for more details.

Q:  Will we study the particular phenomenon or idea that I'm interested in?
A:  Yes, you can do a research project on it.

Q:  What texts and equipment do I need?
A:  See the lists at the bottom of our home page.

Q:  Do I need a computer at home, sincemuch of the program requires Internet use?
A:  No - you can use the computers at school.  You will be expected to meet your small team of classmates several times per week, so you might plan on using the campus computers before or after those meetings.

Q:  What telescope should I buy?
A:  Don't buy a telescop!.  Buy or borrow a 10 x 50 binoculars and a tripod.  They are much easier to use.  You can use the college's telescopes and try out different types;  test drive as many as you can before you decide to make a major investment in a telescope.

Q:  How much math and science do I have to know?
A:  You should be comfortable with algebra and willing to learn more.  We are not assuming that you have any background at all in physics or astronomy.

Q:  How hard is the program?
A:  While we are not assuming much background knowledge, you will be expected to do a lot of work and to learn a lot.  Be prepared for up to 300 pages of reading each week, one short paper per week, quantitative homework every week, and observing most clear nights.  You will do at least one research project, write it up on a web page, and present your work to the class. We will help you develop the skills you need to do all this, if you are willing to work hard.  This is a fine program for beginners, but not for flakes.  If you want a light and easy spring quarter, this is not the program for you. If you want a fun and challenging program, this is a good candidate.

Q:  What other prerequisites are there?
A:  See the program description for details.  "Maturity" means you take responsibility for your own learning and keep the commitments in the program covenant, at a minimum.

Q:  Will we take a field trip to the Southwest?
A:  Not this year, as family responsibilities prevent Zita from traveling. Students are invited to organize weekend trips together to eastern Washington where the skies are clearer. Goldendale observatory is a good place with nearby camping.