What are the best astronomy courses on Coursera?

Top options include Astronomy: Exploring Time and Space from the University of Arizona and The Evolving Universe from the Caltech . These courses cover stars, galaxies, planets, black holes, and the scientific methods used to explore the universe.

Can I learn astronomy for free on Coursera?

Yes. Many astronomy courses offer a free audit option, allowing you to access lectures and reading materials at no cost. To complete assignments or earn a certificate, you’ll need to upgrade or apply for financial aid.

What will I learn in an astronomy course?

You’ll learn about celestial objects, the life cycle of stars, planetary motion, space exploration , and cosmology. Some courses also explore topics like exoplanets, telescopes, and the possibility of life beyond Earth.

Do I need a science or math background to study astronomy on Coursera?

Not necessarily. Many courses are designed for beginners and focus on conceptual understanding, with optional math-based content. More technical courses may include physics or calculus , but course descriptions will indicate prerequisites.

Can studying astronomy on Coursera help me in my career?

Yes. These courses are great for preparing for STEM studies , science educators, or lifelong learners. While they don’t replace a formal degree, they can support academic growth, strengthen scientific literacy, and fuel interest in careers in science and space research.

Top Astronomy Courses - Learn Astronomy Online

Status: Free Trial

University of Colorado Boulder

The Business, Politics, Policy, & Players of Space Programs

Skills you'll gain: Global Positioning Systems, Political Sciences, Entrepreneurship, International Relations, Governance, Higher Education, Public Policies, Policy Analysis, Business, Commercialization, Budgeting, Innovation, Emerging Technologies

Status: Free Trial

University of Colorado Boulder

Spacecraft Dynamics Capstone: Mars Mission

Skills you'll gain: Control Systems, Numerical Analysis, Simulations, Engineering Analysis, Visualization (Computer Graphics), Engineering Calculations, Torque (Physics), Mathematical Modeling, Matlab

École Polytechnique

Vers l'infiniment grand - Voyages de l'infiniment grand à l'infiniment petit

Skills you'll gain: Physics, General Science and Research, Physical Science, Science and Research, Simulations, Engineering, Scientific, and Technical Instruments

École Polytechnique

D'un infini à l'autre - Voyages de l'infiniment grand à l'infiniment petit

Skills you'll gain: Physics, Physical Science, Laboratory Experience, General Science and Research, Research, Scientific Methods, Simulation and Simulation Software

Status: Free Trial

University of Michigan

Rocket Science in Everyday Life

Skills you'll gain: Environmental Monitoring, Global Positioning Systems, Environmental Science, Environment, Physical Science, Geographic Information Systems, Research, Scientific Methods, Science and Research, Physics, Mechanics, Emerging Technologies

University of Houston

A Brief History of Human Spaceflight

Skills you'll gain: Ancient History, International Relations, Aerospace Basic Quality System Standards, Human Factors, Failure Analysis, Engineering, Safety Assurance, Public History

Status: Free Trial

University of Colorado Boulder

Spacecraft Relative Motion Kinematics and Kinetics

Skills you'll gain: Mechanics, Differential Equations, Mathematical Modeling, Advanced Mathematics, Linear Algebra, Engineering Calculations, Simulations, Applied Mathematics, Physics, Calculus

Status: Free Trial

University of Colorado Boulder

Kinematics: Describing the Motions of Spacecraft

Skills you'll gain: Mechanics, Linear Algebra, Numerical Analysis, Engineering Calculations, Engineering Analysis, Differential Equations, Physics, Mathematical Modeling, Applied Mathematics, Verification And Validation, Advanced Mathematics, Estimation

Status: Free Trial

Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México

Out of core nuclear fuel management: front end

Skills you'll gain: Energy and Utilities, Manufacturing Operations, Production Process, Manufacturing Processes, Process Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Engineering Calculations, Chemistry, Environment and Resource Management, Natural Resource Management

Status: Free Trial

University of Michigan

The History of Rocket Science

Skills you'll gain: Manufacturing and Production, World History, International Relations, Business Modeling, Political Sciences, Timelines, Engineering Design Process

Status: Free Trial

University of Colorado Boulder

Getting There and Going Beyond

Skills you'll gain: Systems Engineering, Global Positioning Systems, Control Systems, Engineering, Human Factors, System Testing, Wireless Networks, Automation, Structural Engineering, Thermal Management, Electric Power Systems, Environmental Monitoring

École Polytechnique

Quantum Optics 2 - Two photons and more

Skills you'll gain: Emerging Technologies, Telecommunications, Cryptography, Network Planning And Design, Simulation and Simulation Software, Physics, Engineering, Scientific, and Technical Instruments, Applied Mathematics, Algorithms, Experimentation

Astronomy Courses

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Find the Best Astronomy Course for Your Goals

The Business, Politics, Policy, & Players of Space Programs

Spacecraft Dynamics Capstone: Mars Mission

Vers l'infiniment grand - Voyages de l'infiniment grand à l'infiniment petit