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

ISAE-SUPAERO

Flight Mechanics - Anemobarometry

Skills you'll gain: Physical Science, Applied Mathematics, Systems Of Measurement, Engineering Calculations, Mathematical Modeling, Mechanics, Physics, Engineering Analysis

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 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

Design of High-Performance Optical Systems

Skills you'll gain: Engineering, Scientific, and Technical Instruments, Image Analysis, Laboratory Equipment, Systems Design, Human Factors, Engineering Calculations, Technical Design, Simulation and Simulation Software, Engineering Design Process, Mathematical Modeling, Applied Mathematics

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

Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology(KAIST)

Introduction to Acoustics (Part 2)

Skills you'll gain: Vibrations, HVAC, Building Design, Engineering Design Process, Engineering Analysis, Engineering Calculations, Mathematical Modeling, Integral Calculus, Applied Mathematics, Differential Equations, Calculus, Physics

Status: Free Trial

University of Colorado Boulder

Control of Nonlinear Spacecraft Attitude Motion

Skills you'll gain: Control Systems, Vibrations, Torque (Physics), Mathematical Modeling, Differential Equations, Simulation and Simulation Software, Applied Mathematics, Engineering Analysis, Mechanics

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

University of Arizona

Biosphere 2 Science for the Future of Our Planet

Skills you'll gain: Water Resources, Environment, Environmental Science, Biology, Environment and Resource Management, Life Sciences, Natural Resource Management, Systems Thinking, Physical Science, Research, Innovation, Emerging Technologies

Universitat de Barcelona

Strategies for winning. Meteorology in a round the world regatta

Skills you'll gain: Safety Assurance, Mathematical Modeling, Predictive Modeling, Time Series Analysis and Forecasting, Global Positioning Systems, Water Resources, Telecommunications, Risk Control

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

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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