Astrophysics

In this project-based class, we will explore the dynamics and evolution of the contents of our universe. We will grapple with a series of essential questions: how do we know what planets and stars are made of? How do stars die? Do other star systems support life? Where do black holes come from? How big is the universe? How do we even know all of this?

While astronomy and astrophysics both involve the study of planets, stars, galaxies, and the history and evolution of the universe and its contents, astronomy is more descriptive, with a greater focus on the history and methods of astronomical observation, including telescopes and the apparent motion of objects in the sky. Astrophysics, by contrast, makes greater use of the tools of physics and chemistry and is more quantitative and computational in nature. That said, because of the differing order in which BlendEd member schools offer science courses, no prerequisite study in physics or chemistry is required; we will introduce what we need.

We will spend significant time and energy on the metacognitive processes of learning, with the expectation that the communication and reasoning skills students acquire in this course will be generally useful, even outside of STEM courses.

Students are expected to attend once-per-week, camera-on Zoom sessions on Mondays at 7:30 pm and to schedule once-per-week project sessions with other small-group members. Students must also attend at least 3 of the 5 planned in-person sessions on weekend evenings to be announced. In-person activities may include visits to local astrophysics research laboratories, scaffolded research project work, nighttime visits to observatories, and some classwork and assessments.

  UC Approved: Physics      

About the Instructor

Byron Philhour – SF University High School
Byron Philhour is the Dean of Teaching and Learning at San Francisco University High School. Over the last two and a half decades, he has taught astronomy, cosmology, physics, chemistry, computer science, and computational modeling. He earned his undergraduate degree in physics from U.C. Berkeley with a focus on gamma-ray astrophysics and his Ph.D. in physics from the California Institute of Technology with a focus on observational cosmology. As an educator, Byron aligns with the constructivist and humanist movements, understanding that human beings are capable of explosive, self-directed, experiential learning once obstacles to their well-being are removed.

Byron lives in San Francisco with his wife, three children (one in high school, one in middle school, one in elementary school), three dogs, and two cats. Byron wishes he had a bird, too, but thinks that would be unwise because of the cats.