This course provides an essential understanding and big picture context for any learner interested in the space sciences! Galaxies are the environments in which other cosmic objects, such as stars, planets, black holes, and quasars exist. 

We examine the amazing features within our own galaxy as well as look out to other galaxies.

We will investigate questions such as:

- Why are the different shapes of galaxies?
- Do all galaxies have supermassive black holes at their centers?
- What are the Magellanic Clouds?
- How are elements distributed throughout space?
- Are there hydrogen bridges between galaxy groups?
- Where are stars formed in the Milky Way?
- What features can be studied with and without telescopes?
- What new information have we learned about galaxies from the James Webb Space Telescope?

This is a highly interactive course. Students will learn through an image filled presentation and discussion. Students’ participation and questions are regularly encouraged. Classes are designed to encourage student engagement and follow their curiosity.


Course schedule:

Week 1 - Galactic Introduction: In our opening lesson we will examine what galaxies are, how we think they formed and how astronomers study them.

Week 2 - Highlights of the Milky Way: Learners will discover the regions of our own galaxy, what they are and how they form, including some of the most strikingly beautiful objects to ever be photographed such as the Great nebula, Eta Carinae, and the Galactic Center. 

Week 3 - Our Neighbors: We will explore our galactic neighbors Andromeda Galaxy, the Triangulum Galaxy, and the Magellanic Clouds. In this lesson we will pay special attention to how these objects are studied and the recent discoveries made in each. 

Week 4 - The Big Picture and Galactic Evolution: In our final lesson we will investigate possible futures for the Milky Way and how it relates to other galaxies in our supercluster, Laniakea.


There is no textbook or prerequisites for this class, just a love of learning and curiosity about astronomy and STEM. All necessary learning materials will be provided in the classroom. Classes are designed to encourage student engagement and follow their curiosity.