Janice A. Hester, Ph.D.

Residential Faculty - Astronomy

Physical Science

Office: PS 15 - Room: 208

480-461-7313 (alt)

Office Hours

MondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFriday
 8:00 AM - 8:50 AM9:00 AM - 10:00 AM8:00 AM - 8:50 AM 
 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM12:30 PM - 1:30 PM  

Online

Online

Online

Online

Online

By appointmentBy appointmentBy appointmentBy appointmentBy appointment

  • Tuesday and Thursday morning office hours are in person in PS 208
  • Online office hours by appointment, please message me up to one hour prior if you would like to attend
  • Other times (including some evenings online) by appointment

I am always happy to have students during office hours.   For online office hours, please message me beforehand so that I have an online meeting open for you.

If you wish to set up a meeting outside of normal office hours, please contact me at least 24 hours in advance. Since I may have conflicts with your preferred time, please suggest 2-3 times when you would be available to meet.

Classes Taught

Spring 2024

AST111 Introduction to Solar System Astronomy 4 Credits

Introduction to astronomy for the non-science major. The scientific method, properties of light, astronomical instruments, our Solar System and solar systems around other stars. Includes hands-on astronomical observations and laboratory exercises.

Prerequisites: A grade of C or better in MAT092 or higher, or satisfactory district placement.

Course Notes: AST106, AST111, and AST112 cover three areas of Astronomy. These courses can be taken in any order or combination.

It is highly encouraged that you attend the FREE MCC Physics and Astronomy Boot Camp that occurs prior to the beginning of the semester. Participants will review key skills necessary for success; participants will be better prepared for their course. Visit https://www.mesacc.edu/students/foundations-student-success/boot-camps for more information and to register.

General Education Designations: Natural Sciences Quantitative [SQ]
Section Location Delivery Dates Days Times Availability
28875
Dobson Campus
In Person
Lecture
01/16/2024 - 05/10/2024
TuTh
9:00 AM - 10:15 AM

Class Started

Notes: Low-Textbook-Cost Class: The total cost of the required materials for this course is $40 or less.

Zero-Textbook-Cost Class: The total cost of required online instructional materials for this "Z Class" is $0.

Lab Notes: Students registering for class 28875 must also register for .

27389

Online Course

Online (On Your Time)
Lecture
01/16/2024 - 03/08/2024

Class Ended

Notes: This is an Online class that does not meet at specific class times. Students are required to have access to a computer or mobile device, and Internet access, unless otherwise specified. Before enrolling in their first online class at MCC, students need to view the online orientation and complete the readiness survey on https://www.mesacc.edu/online/get-started for additional information.

Low-Textbook-Cost Class: The total cost of the required materials for this course is $40 or less.

Zero-Textbook-Cost Class: The total cost of required online instructional materials for this "Z Class" is $0.

Class 27389 Students may contact instructor at: janice.hester@mesacc.edu

Lab Notes: Students registering for class 27389 must also register for .

28876
Dobson Campus
In Person
Lab
01/16/2024 - 05/10/2024
TuTh
10:30 AM - 11:45 AM

Class Started

Lecture Notes: Students registering for class 28876 must also register for .

28229

Online Course

Online (On Your Time)
Lab
01/16/2024 - 03/08/2024

Class Ended

Notes: This is an Online class that does not meet at specific class times. Students are required to have access to a computer or mobile device, and Internet access, unless otherwise specified. Before enrolling in their first online class at MCC, students need to view the online orientation and complete the readiness survey on https://www.mesacc.edu/online/get-started for additional information.

Class 28229 Students may contact instructor at: janice.hester@mesacc.edu

Lecture Notes: Students registering for class 28229 must also register for .

AST112 Introduction to Stars, Galaxies, and Cosmology 4 Credits

Introduction to astronomy for the non-science major. Structure and evolution of stars; supernovae, black holes, and quasars; nebulae; star clusters; galaxies; cosmology, including the birth and death of the universe.

Prerequisites: A grade of C or better in MAT092 or higher, or satisfactory district placement.

Course Notes: AST106, AST111, and AST112 cover three areas of Astronomy. These courses can be taken in any order or combination.

It is highly encouraged that you attend the FREE MCC Physics and Astronomy Boot Camp that occurs prior to the beginning of the semester. Participants will review key skills necessary for success; participants will be better prepared for their course. Visit https://www.mesacc.edu/students/foundations-student-success/boot-camps for more information and to register.

General Education Designations: Natural Sciences Quantitative [SQ]
Section Location Delivery Dates Days Times Availability
28440

Online Course

Online (On Your Time)
Lecture
01/16/2024 - 05/10/2024

Class Started

Notes: This is an Online class that does not meet at specific class times. Students are required to have access to a computer or mobile device, and Internet access, unless otherwise specified. Before enrolling in their first online class at MCC, students need to view the online orientation and complete the readiness survey on https://www.mesacc.edu/online/get-started for additional information.

Class 28440 Students may contact instructor at: janice.hester@mesacc.edu. Students are required to submit an initial assignment due within the first few days of class. Students are required to have access to a computer and internet. A webcam and microphone are recommended. A mobile device may not be sufficient for all course content.

Low-Textbook-Cost Class: The total cost of the required materials for this course is $40 or less.

Zero-Textbook-Cost Class: The total cost of required online instructional materials for this "Z Class" is $0.

Lab Notes: Students registering for class 28440 must also register for .

28441

Online Course

Online (On Your Time)
Lab
01/16/2024 - 05/10/2024

Class Started

Notes: This is an Online class that does not meet at specific class times. Students are required to have access to a computer or mobile device, and Internet access, unless otherwise specified. Before enrolling in their first online class at MCC, students need to view the online orientation and complete the readiness survey on https://www.mesacc.edu/online/get-started for additional information.

Class 28441 Students may contact instructor at: janice.hester@mesacc.edu

Lecture Notes: Students registering for class 28441 must also register for .

Spring Flex Start 2024

AST112 Introduction to Stars, Galaxies, and Cosmology 4 Credits

Introduction to astronomy for the non-science major. Structure and evolution of stars; supernovae, black holes, and quasars; nebulae; star clusters; galaxies; cosmology, including the birth and death of the universe.

Prerequisites: A grade of C or better in MAT092 or higher, or satisfactory district placement.

Course Notes: AST106, AST111, and AST112 cover three areas of Astronomy. These courses can be taken in any order or combination.

It is highly encouraged that you attend the FREE MCC Physics and Astronomy Boot Camp that occurs prior to the beginning of the semester. Participants will review key skills necessary for success; participants will be better prepared for their course. Visit https://www.mesacc.edu/students/foundations-student-success/boot-camps for more information and to register.

General Education Designations: Natural Sciences Quantitative [SQ]
Section Location Delivery Dates Days Times Availability
28388

Online Course

Online (On Your Time)
Lecture
03/18/2024 - 05/10/2024

Class Started

Notes: This is an Online class that does not meet at specific class times. Students are required to have access to a computer or mobile device, and Internet access, unless otherwise specified. Before enrolling in their first online class at MCC, students need to view the online orientation and complete the readiness survey on https://www.mesacc.edu/online/get-started for additional information.

Class 28388 Students may contact instructor at: janice.hester@mesacc.edu. Students are required to submit an initial assignment due within the first few days of class. Students are required to have access to a computer and internet. A webcam and microphone are recommended. A mobile device may not be sufficient for all course content.

Low-Textbook-Cost Class: The total cost of the required materials for this course is $40 or less.

Zero-Textbook-Cost Class: The total cost of required online instructional materials for this "Z Class" is $0.

Lab Notes: Students registering for class 28388 must also register for .

28389

Online Course

Online (On Your Time)
Lab
03/18/2024 - 05/10/2024

Class Started

Notes: This is an Online class that does not meet at specific class times. Students are required to have access to a computer or mobile device, and Internet access, unless otherwise specified. Before enrolling in their first online class at MCC, students need to view the online orientation and complete the readiness survey on https://www.mesacc.edu/online/get-started for additional information.

Class 28389 Students may contact instructor at: janice.hester@mesacc.edu

Lecture Notes: Students registering for class 28389 must also register for .

Summer 2024

AST112 Introduction to Stars, Galaxies, and Cosmology 4 Credits

Introduction to astronomy for the non-science major. Structure and evolution of stars; supernovae, black holes, and quasars; nebulae; star clusters; galaxies; cosmology, including the birth and death of the universe.

Prerequisites: A grade of C or better in MAT092 or higher, or satisfactory district placement.

General Education Designations: Natural Sciences Quantitative [SQ]
Section Location Delivery Dates Days Times Availability
17081

Online Course

Online (On Your Time)
Lecture
05/28/2024 - 07/18/2024

Open

17 of 24
Seats Available

Notes: This is an Online class that does not meet at specific class times. Students are required to have access to a computer or mobile device, and Internet access, unless otherwise specified. Before enrolling in their first online class at MCC, students need to view the online orientation and complete the readiness survey on https://www.mesacc.edu/online/get-started for additional information.

Students may contact instructor at: janice.hester@mesacc.edu

Lab Notes: Students registering for class 17081 must also register for .

17082

Online Course

Online (On Your Time)
Lab
05/28/2024 - 07/18/2024

Open

17 of 24
Seats Available

Notes: This is an Online class that does not meet at specific class times. Students are required to have access to a computer or mobile device, and Internet access, unless otherwise specified. Before enrolling in their first online class at MCC, students need to view the online orientation and complete the readiness survey on https://www.mesacc.edu/online/get-started for additional information.

Students may contact instructor at: janice.hester@mesacc.edu

Lecture Notes: Students registering for class 17082 must also register for .

Fall 2024

AST111 Introduction to Solar System Astronomy 4 Credits

Introduction to astronomy for the non-science major. The scientific method, properties of light, astronomical instruments, our Solar System and solar systems around other stars. Includes hands-on astronomical observations and laboratory exercises.

Prerequisites: A grade of C or better in MAT092 or higher, or satisfactory district placement.

Course Notes: Note that AST111 is not a prerequisite for other AST courses, AST106, 111, and 112 cover three areas of study in astronomy. These courses can be taken in any order or combination. AST106 and AST112 are not prerequisites of this course.

It is highly encouraged that you attend the FREE MCC Physics and Astronomy Boot Camp that occurs prior to the beginning of the semester. Participants will review key skills necessary for success; participants will be better prepared for their course. Visit https://www.mesacc.edu/students/foundations-student-success/boot-camps for more information and to register.

General Education Designations: Natural Sciences Quantitative [SQ]
Section Location Delivery Dates Days Times Availability
33413
Red Mountain Campus
In Person
Lecture
08/20/2024 - 12/13/2024
TuTh
9:30 AM - 10:45 AM

Open

23 of 24
Seats Available

Lab Notes: Students registering for class 33413 must also register for .

14050

Online Course

Online (On Your Time)
Lecture
08/19/2024 - 10/11/2024

Open

21 of 24
Seats Available

Notes: This is an Online class that does not meet at specific class times. Students are required to have access to a computer or mobile device, and Internet access, unless otherwise specified. Before enrolling in their first online class at MCC, students need to view the online orientation and complete the readiness survey on https://www.mesacc.edu/online/get-started for additional information.

Low-Textbook-Cost Class: The total cost of the required materials for this course is $40 or less.

This class is a Zero-Textbook-Cost Course, also known as a "Z Class." You will have access to class materials online without having to purchase a textbook.

Class 14050 Instructor will provide digital course material information on the 1st day of class.

Class 14050 This class may include optional synchronous components such as review sessions, office hours, etc.. Coursework must be completed according to deadlines. Students are required to submit an initial assignment due within the first few days of class. Students are required to have access to a computer and Internet. A webcam and microphone are recommended. A mobile device may not be sufficient for all course content.

Class 14050 Students may contact instructor at: janice.hester@mesacc.edu

Lab Notes: Students registering for class 14050 must also register for .

33414
Red Mountain Campus
In Person
Lab
08/20/2024 - 12/13/2024
TuTh
11:00 AM - 12:15 PM

Open

23 of 24
Seats Available

Lecture Notes: Students registering for class 33414 must also register for .

14849

Online Course

Online (On Your Time)
Lab
08/19/2024 - 10/11/2024

Open

21 of 24
Seats Available

Notes: This is an Online class that does not meet at specific class times. Students are required to have access to a computer or mobile device, and Internet access, unless otherwise specified. Before enrolling in their first online class at MCC, students need to view the online orientation and complete the readiness survey on https://www.mesacc.edu/online/get-started for additional information.

Low-Textbook-Cost Class: The total cost of the required materials for this course is $40 or less.

This class is a Zero-Textbook-Cost Course, also known as a "Z Class." You will have access to class materials online without having to purchase a textbook.

Class 14849 Instructor will provide digital course material information on the 1st day of class.

Class 14849 This class may include optional synchronous components such as review sessions, office hours, etc.. Coursework must be completed according to deadlines. Students are required to submit an initial assignment due within the first few days of class. Students are required to have access to a computer and Internet. A webcam and microphone are recommended. A mobile device may not be sufficient for all course content.

Class 14849 Students may contact instructor at: janice.hester@mesacc.edu

Lecture Notes: Students registering for class 14849 must also register for .

AST112 Introduction to Stars, Galaxies, and Cosmology 4 Credits

Introduction to astronomy for the non-science major. Structure and evolution of stars; supernovae, black holes, and quasars; nebulae; star clusters; galaxies; cosmology, including the birth and death of the universe.

Prerequisites: A grade of C or better in MAT092 or higher, or satisfactory district placement.

Course Notes: Note that AST112 is not a prerequisite for other AST courses, AST106, 111, and 112 cover three areas of study in astronomy. These courses can be taken in any order or combination. AST106 and AST111 are not prerequisites of this course.

It is highly encouraged that you attend the FREE MCC Physics and Astronomy Boot Camp that occurs prior to the beginning of the semester. Participants will review key skills necessary for success; participants will be better prepared for their course. Visit https://www.mesacc.edu/students/foundations-student-success/boot-camps for more information and to register.

General Education Designations: Natural Sciences Quantitative [SQ]
Section Location Delivery Dates Days Times Availability
15904

Online Course

Online (On Your Time)
Lecture
08/19/2024 - 12/13/2024

Open

21 of 24
Seats Available

Notes: This is an Online class that does not meet at specific class times. Students are required to have access to a computer or mobile device, and Internet access, unless otherwise specified. Before enrolling in their first online class at MCC, students need to view the online orientation and complete the readiness survey on https://www.mesacc.edu/online/get-started for additional information.

Class 15904 Students may contact instructor at: janice.hester@mesacc.edu

Lab Notes: Students registering for class 15904 must also register for .

15905

Online Course

Online (On Your Time)
Lab
08/19/2024 - 12/13/2024

Open

21 of 24
Seats Available

Notes: This is an Online class that does not meet at specific class times. Students are required to have access to a computer or mobile device, and Internet access, unless otherwise specified. Before enrolling in their first online class at MCC, students need to view the online orientation and complete the readiness survey on https://www.mesacc.edu/online/get-started for additional information.

Students may contact instructor at: janice.hester@mesacc.edu

Lecture Notes: Students registering for class 15905 must also register for .

Fall Flex Start 2024

AST112 Introduction to Stars, Galaxies, and Cosmology 4 Credits

Introduction to astronomy for the non-science major. Structure and evolution of stars; supernovae, black holes, and quasars; nebulae; star clusters; galaxies; cosmology, including the birth and death of the universe.

Prerequisites: A grade of C or better in MAT092 or higher, or satisfactory district placement.

Course Notes: Note that AST112 is not a prerequisite for other AST courses, AST106, 111, and 112 cover three areas of study in astronomy. These courses can be taken in any order or combination. AST106 and AST111 are not prerequisites of this course.

It is highly encouraged that you attend the FREE MCC Physics and Astronomy Boot Camp that occurs prior to the beginning of the semester. Participants will review key skills necessary for success; participants will be better prepared for their course. Visit https://www.mesacc.edu/students/foundations-student-success/boot-camps for more information and to register.

General Education Designations: Natural Sciences Quantitative [SQ]
Section Location Delivery Dates Days Times Availability
14742

Online Course

Online (On Your Time)
Lecture
10/14/2024 - 12/13/2024

Open

22 of 24
Seats Available

Notes: This is an Online class that does not meet at specific class times. Students are required to have access to a computer or mobile device, and Internet access, unless otherwise specified. Before enrolling in their first online class at MCC, students need to view the online orientation and complete the readiness survey on https://www.mesacc.edu/online/get-started for additional information.

Class 14742 Students may contact instructor at: janice.hester@mesacc.edu

Low-Textbook-Cost Class: The total cost of the required materials for this course is $40 or less.

This class is a Zero-Textbook-Cost Course, also known as a "Z Class." You will have access to class materials online without having to purchase a textbook.

Class 14742 This class may include optional synchronous components such as review sessions, office hours, etc.. Coursework must be completed according to deadlines. Students are required to submit an initial assignment due within the first few days of class. Students are required to have access to a computer and Internet. A webcam and microphone are recommended. A mobile device may not be sufficient for all course content.

Lab Notes: Students registering for class 14742 must also register for .

14852

Online Course

Online (On Your Time)
Lab
10/14/2024 - 12/13/2024

Open

22 of 24
Seats Available

Notes: This is an Online class that does not meet at specific class times. Students are required to have access to a computer or mobile device, and Internet access, unless otherwise specified. Before enrolling in their first online class at MCC, students need to view the online orientation and complete the readiness survey on https://www.mesacc.edu/online/get-started for additional information.

Class 14852 Students may contact instructor at: janice.hester@mesacc.edu

Low-Textbook-Cost Class: The total cost of the required materials for this course is $40 or less.

Zero-Textbook-Cost Class: The total cost of required online instructional materials for this "Z Class" is $0.

Class 14852 This class may include optional synchronous components such as review sessions, office hours, etc.. Coursework must be completed according to deadlines. Students are required to submit an initial assignment due within the first few days of class. Students are required to have access to a computer and Internet. A webcam and microphone are recommended. A mobile device may not be sufficient for all course content.

Lecture Notes: Students registering for class 14852 must also register for .

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