The Sun and the Total Eclipse of August 2017 from Coursera

A total eclipse is one of the most spectacular sights you can ever see! It looks like the end of the world may be at hand. There is a black hole in the sky where the sun should be. Pink flames of solar prominences and long silver streamers of the sun's corona stretch across the sky. It gets cold, and animals do strange things. People scream and shout and cheer, and remember the experience their whole life. But total eclipses are important scientifically as well. They let us see parts of the sun’s atmosphere that are otherwise invisible. A total eclipse presented the first chance to test Einstein’s prediction that matter can bend space – like near a black hole. The best total eclipse in the United States in 40 years happens August 21st, 2017.

This course has two primary goals:

1) to get you excited for the total solar eclipse coming in August 2017 and prepare you and your community to safely view it

2) to provide an inviting overview of the science of the sun and the physics of light

If you are most interested in preparing for the eclipse, you can hop right into Week 5! If you want the full course experience, and to get some fun scientific context for what you'll be seeing on August 21st, start with Week 1 and move through the course week by week!

[Note: if you start with Week 1, you can skip through some of the repeated material once you get to Week 5.]

Overall this course will prepare you to...

* Safely view the total or partial solar eclipse

* Help others watch safely and even make money by leading a “neighborhood watch” of the eclipse

* Review fundamental sun science, including the physics of light, how astronomers study the sun, how it formed, how we know what’s inside it, and where the energy that supports life on earth is generated

What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to the Sun and Eclipses

In this module we describe what causes eclipses, how rare it is for any one place to experience a total eclipse, the dramatic difference between a total or a partial eclipse, and encourage you to see the total eclipse on Aug. 21, 2017. We also review the upcoming course topics, demonstrate how large the sun is, and introduce sunspots.

Most of what we know about the Sun is learned from Light

In this module we explain how astronomers use visible and invisible light (ultraviolet and X-rays) to study the sun. We learn that all light comes from atoms, and that the quantum world of atoms is like nothing you’ve ever seen! We see how the properties of light let us determine the sun’s temperature, its composition, and the important role of its magnetic fields.

How does the Sun work? What makes it shine? What’s inside?

We can’t see inside the sun with visible light, but there are ways to infer or even see down to the sun’s center, where vast amount of energy are generated, making possible life on earth.

How did the sun form?

When you look at Hubble Space Telescope images of beautiful clouds of gas in space you are seeing what happened in our own solar system 4 ½ billion years ago when the sun formed. This week we explain how that process works.

The Aug. 21, 2017 “Great American Total Solar Eclipse”

This Week 5 presentation concentrates on what will happen during the Great American Eclipse of Aug. 21, 2017. It may be viewed alone, or after Weeks 1-4. Weeks 1-4 give a lot of explanation of what you will see, so I hope you take the full course, but if you are in a hurry, this week alone will prepare you.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Introduces novices to the study of the sun, providing a strong foundation in the field

Explores the fundamentals of light and its role in astronomy, making it relevant to students of physics

Covers the formation of the sun and its internal structure, which may interest students with a background in astrophysics

Provides a detailed overview of the upcoming solar eclipse in August 2017, offering unique insights for those interested in the event

Offers practical advice on how to safely view a solar eclipse, catering to the interests of science enthusiasts and casual observers alike

Taught by Douglas Duncan, a recognized expert in solar astrophysics, ensuring the course content is authoritative and up-to-date

Reviews summary

Highly rated solar phenomena course

Learners say that The Sun and the Total Eclipse of August 2017 is a five-star course that is excellent, well-organized, engaging, and well-produced. According to students, Dr. Duncan is an excellent instructor who provides clear and understandable explanations of complex solar phenomena. Students especially appreciate the down-to-earth descriptions of quantum phenomena and the terrific graphics.

Terrific graphics

"Graphics are terrific."

Excellent instructor

"Dr Duncan is excellent."

Complex subject matter explained clearly

"Down to earth (so to speak) descriptions of quantum phenomena that explain common, everyday solar event."

Well-organized and engaging

"The material is arranged in straight forward manner with excellent instruction by Dr Duncan."

"Cannot think of a better way to learn this subject matter."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in The Sun and the Total Eclipse of August 2017 with these activities:

Read 'The Stars: A New Way to See Them'

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This book provides a comprehensive and engaging introduction to astronomy, laying a solid foundation for the course's exploration of the sun and eclipses.

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Read each chapter thoroughly, paying attention to key concepts.
Take notes or highlight important passages.
Review your notes or highlighted passages regularly.

Practice basic math operations

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Sharpen your math skills to strengthen your foundational knowledge for this science-heavy course.

Browse courses on Math

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Review addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
Solve practice problems to reinforce concepts.

Explore the NASA Sun-Earth Connection website

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NASA's website offers interactive tutorials and resources that can enhance your understanding of the sun's behavior and its impact on Earth.

Browse courses on Sun

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Visit the NASA Sun-Earth Connection website.
Explore the 'Sun' and 'Earth' sections.
Follow the guided tutorials and simulations.

Five other activities

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Host a study group or discussion forum

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Engage with peers to discuss course concepts, exchange ideas, and enhance your understanding through collaborative learning.

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Identify a topic or set of questions for discussion.
Invite classmates to participate in a study group or discussion forum.
Facilitate the discussion, encouraging active participation.

Solve eclipse-related physics problems

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Challenge yourself with physics problems involving eclipses to deepen your comprehension of the scientific principles at play.

Browse courses on Physics

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Gather practice problems from textbooks or online resources.
Attempt to solve the problems independently.
Check your solutions against provided answer keys.

Attend astronomy-related conferences or workshops

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Immerse yourself in the astronomy community to gain insights, learn from experts, and stay updated on the latest research.

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Identify astronomy-related conferences or workshops in your area or online.
Register and attend the events.
Engage with speakers, attendees, and exhibitors.

Design an infographic explaining solar eclipses

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Create a visually appealing infographic to synthesize your knowledge of solar eclipses and share it with others.

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Gather key information about solar eclipses.
Choose a visually appealing infographic template.
Design the infographic, incorporating text, images, and graphics.
Share your infographic online or with friends and family.

Tutor or mentor a struggling student

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Reinforce your own understanding by assisting others with their learning, while fostering a supportive learning community.

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Identify a struggling student who could benefit from your help.
Offer your assistance in understanding specific concepts or completing assignments.
Provide guidance and support through regular tutoring or mentoring sessions.

Career center

Learners who complete The Sun and the Total Eclipse of August 2017 will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Astronomer

Astronomers study and analyze the universe to gain a deeper understanding of its composition and history. The course, The Sun and the Total Eclipse of August 2017, provides a solid foundation in astronomy concepts, including the physics of light, the formation of stars and planets, and the structure and evolution of the sun. By taking this course, you can gain the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue a career as an Astronomer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Astronomer

Astrophysicist

Astrophysicists apply the principles of physics to study the universe and its contents. The course, The Sun and the Total Eclipse of August 2017, provides a strong foundation in astrophysics concepts, including the properties of light, the structure and evolution of stars, and the formation and evolution of galaxies. By taking this course, you can gain the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue a career as an Astrophysicist.

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Cosmologist

Cosmologists study the origin and evolution of the universe. The course, The Sun and the Total Eclipse of August 2017, provides a solid foundation in cosmology concepts, including the Big Bang theory, the formation and evolution of galaxies, and the large-scale structure of the universe. By taking this course, you can gain the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue a career as a Cosmologist.

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Planetary Scientist

Planetary Scientists study the planets, moons, and other objects in our solar system. The course, The Sun and the Total Eclipse of August 2017, provides a strong foundation in planetary science concepts, including the formation and evolution of planets, the geology and atmospheres of planets, and the search for life beyond Earth. By taking this course, you can gain the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue a career as a Planetary Scientist.

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Space Scientist

Space Scientists study the universe and its contents, including stars, planets, galaxies, and the interstellar medium. The course, The Sun and the Total Eclipse of August 2017, provides a solid foundation in space science concepts, including the physics of light, the formation and evolution of stars and galaxies, and the search for life beyond Earth. By taking this course, you can gain the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue a career as a Space Scientist.

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Science Teacher

Science Teachers educate students in science, including astronomy, physics, chemistry, and biology. The course, The Sun and the Total Eclipse of August 2017, provides a solid foundation in science concepts, including the physics of light, the formation and evolution of stars and planets, and the structure and evolution of the sun. By taking this course, you can gain the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue a career as a Science Teacher.

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Science Writer

Science Writers communicate complex scientific concepts to the public in a clear and engaging way. The course, The Sun and the Total Eclipse of August 2017, provides a solid foundation in science concepts, including the physics of light, the formation and evolution of stars and planets, and the structure and evolution of the sun. By taking this course, you can gain the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue a career as a Science Writer.

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Technical Writer

Technical Writers create user manuals, training materials, and other written materials to explain complex technical concepts. The course, The Sun and the Total Eclipse of August 2017, provides a strong foundation in technical writing concepts, including the principles of clear and concise writing, the use of visuals to convey information, and the organization of technical information. By taking this course, you can gain the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue a career as a Technical Writer.

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Museum Educator

Museum Educators develop and deliver educational programs and exhibits for museums and other cultural institutions. The course, The Sun and the Total Eclipse of August 2017, provides a solid foundation in astronomy concepts, including the physics of light, the formation and evolution of stars and planets, and the structure and evolution of the sun. By taking this course, you can gain the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue a career as a Museum Educator.

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Science Communicator

Science Communicators translate complex scientific concepts into language that is accessible to the public. The course, The Sun and the Total Eclipse of August 2017, provides a solid foundation in science concepts, including the physics of light, the formation and evolution of stars and planets, and the structure and evolution of the sun. By taking this course, you can gain the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue a career as a Science Communicator.

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Science Policy Analyst

Science Policy Analysts advise policymakers on the scientific implications of proposed policies. The course, The Sun and the Total Eclipse of August 2017, provides a solid foundation in science concepts, including the physics of light, the formation and evolution of stars and planets, and the structure and evolution of the sun. By taking this course, you can gain the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue a career as a Science Policy Analyst.

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Patent Attorney

Patent Attorneys help inventors protect their intellectual property. The course, The Sun and the Total Eclipse of August 2017, may provide a helpful foundation in science concepts, including the physics of light, the formation and evolution of stars and planets, and the structure and evolution of the sun. By taking this course, you can gain a better understanding of the scientific principles behind inventions, which may be beneficial in a career as a Patent Attorney.

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Science Librarian

Science Librarians help researchers and students find and access scientific information. The course, The Sun and the Total Eclipse of August 2017, provides a solid foundation in science concepts, including the physics of light, the formation and evolution of stars and planets, and the structure and evolution of the sun. By taking this course, you can gain a better understanding of the scientific literature, which may be beneficial in a career as a Science Librarian.

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Science Journalist

Science Journalists write and report on scientific discoveries and advances. The course, The Sun and the Total Eclipse of August 2017, provides a solid foundation in science concepts, including the physics of light, the formation and evolution of stars and planets, and the structure and evolution of the sun. By taking this course, you can gain a better understanding of the scientific process and the latest discoveries, which may be beneficial in a career as a Science Journalist.

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Science Photographer

Science Photographers capture images of scientific phenomena and discoveries. The course, The Sun and the Total Eclipse of August 2017, provides a solid foundation in science concepts, including the physics of light, the formation and evolution of stars and planets, and the structure and evolution of the sun. By taking this course, you can gain a better understanding of the scientific process and the latest discoveries, which may be beneficial in a career as a Science Photographer.

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