In this course, we will examine the power and limitations of scientific investigation. We will consider some of the fundamental questions addressed by astronomy and learn how the physical sciences can address these questions. While most of the objects astronomers study are remote, many provide new perspectives on the Earth, and the methods we use can be applied to many "real world" problems. Finally, we will explore what we know and don't know about the Universe and its constituent parts, and how we have reached those conclusions. In this context, students will be required to think about and solve conceptual and quantitative problems of astronomy and physics, including some moderately challenging topics. This will involve some use of algebra and geometry.