Astronomy is the area of science that seeks to understand the objects in the sky, outside the Earth's atmosphere: the Sun & Moon, planets in our solar system, stars in the Milky Way, other galaxies, and the entire universe. Astronomers study these objects using telescopes, on Earth and in orbit, that detect light across the spectrum, from X-rays to radio waves, using the laws of physics to interpret and understand the observations they collect.
Why Consider an Astronomy Minor?
The astronomy minor provides a comprehensive introduction to the fields of planetary science, stellar and galactic astronomy, and cosmology (the study of the entire universe). Many students complete the astronomy minor to learn more about the universe around them; Students seeking to pursue a graduate degree in astronomy and astrophysics are encouraged to complete the astronomy minor along with the Physics, BS degree.

