A survey of modern astronomy with a focus on how our present views of the universe developed. Exploring the solar system by telescope and spacecraft. The birth and death of stars. Variable stars. Interstellar medium. The Milky Way and other galaxies. Pulsars (neutron stars) and supernovae. The concept of a black hole. Exploding galaxies (radio galaxies) and quasars. The evolution of the universe. The possibilities of extraterrestrial life and interstellar communication.