A one-semester survey course in contemporary astronomy in which students examine the present scientific understanding of the universe and how that understanding has been achieved. Topics covered include historical astronomy, the solar system, stars and interstellar medium, galaxies, and cosmology. The laboratory component of the course allows students hands-on experience in some of the measurement processes used in modern astronomy, and includes use of the Keeble Observatory. This course partially fulfills the Area of Knowledge requirement as a Natural Science with laboratory. C21:NS,SP.