Looking for the best online astronomy courses to help you pursue your love of space?
If you’re someone who loves looking up at the stars and wants to learn more about what’s out there, then you’re in luck.
There are now a number of excellent online astronomy courses available that can help you get started in this fascinating field.
Study everything from the stars, black holes, and celestial bodies from the comfort of your home and at a fraction of the cost of traditional university courses
We’ve reviewed and ranked the best online astronomy classes based on a number of key factors, including instructor credentials, curriculum, and overall student satisfaction.
Disclosure:Â Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost for you, we might get a commission if you click the link and purchase.
What are the Best Online Astronomy Courses in 2023?
Here are our picks for the top online classes in astronomy in 2023…
1. Chris Hadfield Teaches Space Exploration (Masterclass)
Chris Hadfield Teaches Space Exploration (Masterclass)
Learn about the science of exploration and get a peek into what the future holds in this online course from the former commander of the International Space Station.
How often do you get the chance to learn from a former commander of the International Space Station?
In this one-of-a-kind course, you can learn from legendary astronaut Chris Hadfield about what it takes to explore space and what the future holds for humans in beyond Earth.
This online astronomy course will detail the science of space travel, the intricacies of life as an astronaut, and how flying in space alters the way you think about living on Earth.
No other online astronomy class can boast being taught by such a highly-credentialed instructor.
A Masterclass membership comes with access to all 180+ classes with new classes added every month, and Masterclass pricing is a great value for all it offers.
Our Masterclass review has more details.
Click here to try this course now.
2. The Universe As We Know It (Skillshare)
Ever wondered how the universe works and how we live in it? The Universe As We Know It provided by Skillshare is the perfect entry-level online astronomy course to find out!
In just under 2 hours, you can cover a whole range of topics from the different planets to cosmic definitions and black holes. This short but detailed course is great for anyone looking to further their interest in astronomy.
Written by a parent looking to explain the world to their 9-year-old, this course is simple yet comprehensive in teaching you the workings of the universe.
To complete you must finish the 10-question quiz and upload your results as your final assignment. Or you can write a short essay on a recent scientific development in space!
Skillshare pricing is very affordable for all it offers, and there’s even a free 30-day trial.
Our Skillshare review offers an in-depth look at all the features of the platform.
Click here to try Skillshare free for 30 days.
3. The Science Of The Solar System, Caltech (Coursera)
This free online course will educate you on the science behind the exploration of the solar system that is being conducted in modern days.
You will combine the principles of biology, geology, physics, and chemistry to understand what is happening within our planet and beyond.
This course is targeted to those who have a basic understanding of science and preferably have a history of math and physics.
However, this is not necessary, you just may have to do your own studying in order to fully understand certain concepts.
As you approach the end of the course you will complete a series of quizzes and exams to ensure you can think critically and understand the materials.
We recommend this online astronomy course if you are prepared for a rewarding challenge.
The Coursera pricing model allows you to audit classes at no cost, but if you want to get a certificate for completing the course, you’ll need to pay a fee.
Our Coursera Plus review has all the details on this popular course platform.
Try this course free on Coursera.
4. From The Big Bang To Dark Energy, University Of Tokyo (Coursera)
Delivered by astronomer Hitoshi Murayama, this course will teach you how the universe has evolved over the last 13.7 billion years.
As you progress through the course, you will discover theories about the dark energy of the universe and how it may be negatively affecting the earth.
This free online course is perfect for those looking to delve into the scientific history of the earth and the different elements which created the earth.
This astronomy course is taught by Professor Hitoshi Murayama, MacAdams Professor of Physics, University of California, Berkeley.
Try this course free on Coursera.
5. Astro 101: Black Holes, University Of Alberta (Coursera)
Interested in learning more about the mystery that is black holes? This beginner online course is the perfect entry to the world of space and the unknown.
Over the course of 10 weeks, you will learn the basic principles of astronomy, relativity, and quantum physics. All under the watchful eye of Sharon Morsink, a professor of the department of physics and the University of Alberta.
Once you complete the course you can purchase a certificate to ensure that everyone is aware of your achievement.
Try this course free on Coursera.
6. Astronomy: State Of The Art (Udemy)
Astronomy- State Of The Art by Udemy is a free online course led by Professor Chris Impey. With a focus on the wonders of astronomy, you will learn about the discoveries of our own Solar System and the prospect of other universes.
You will begin to understand the use of telescopes and detectors that are used to alter our view of the universe today.
If you are ready to start learning about our universe and the wonders it holds, then the Astronomy-State of the Art course by Udemy is the perfect place to start.
This extensive course is perfect for anyone interested in questioning the life of the Earth and the potential life outside.
Our Udemy pricing guide has more details on how their plans work.
Check out our Udemy review to learn more.
Click here to get started on this course.
7. Astronomy: Exploring Time And Space, University Of Arizona (Coursera)
Anyone looking to gain more insight into the modern world of astronomy without having any background in the field will love this online course. All you need is an interest in astronomy.
At just under 45 hours long this course is extremely detailed and comprehensive. And while it may seem rather long, you will learn everything you need to know!
There is no need to commit to a schedule, you can easily follow along at your own pace.
You will learn about the life of the universe, cosmology, and so much on this online course. Through a series of videos, readings and quizzes you face the real challenge of understanding the universe. If anyone ever could.
Try this course free on Coursera.
8. Backyard Astronomy: An Introduction To StarGazing (Udemy)
Are you a backyard stargazer?
In less than 90 minutes, you can learn about the art of stargazing in this powerful online class. This course covers the observing of the Moon, Planets, Stars, Nebula, Star Clusters, and so much more.
You will also experience a tour of the Night Sky as it progresses through the 4 seasons.
This course is perfect for anyone with a love of learning and exploring the stars. Sounds incredible!
You will also learn about the different types of equipment used to understand the language of the stars. Including the different types of binoculars, and telescopes that will only help you appreciate your stargazing experience.
This course is a wonder in itself!
Click here to learn more about this class.
9. Greatest Unsolved Mysteries Of The Universe, Australian National University (edX)
Over the course of 9 weeks, this course will provide you with all the answers to every question about the universe you have.
You will learn about nine of the most difficult issues in contemporary astrophysics in this course.
Although we cannot guarantee that you will find the answers, it will explain what scientists do and don’t know and provide you with the most recent information on ongoing research.
This course is intended for anyone who wants to learn more about these riddles than what is provided by popular science shows and articles.
Provided by the Australian National University you are given a glimpse into what is discussed in the first-year astrophysics program. Perfect for anyone looking to see what their future could hold if they were a student there.
The edX pricing structure lets you audit classes for free, but if you want to get a certificate for completing the course, you’ll have to pay a fee.
You can audit this course for free on edX.
10. From Chemistry To Life, Harvard University (World Science U)
The From Chemistry to Life course is a self-paced course taught from one of the top leading schools in the world.
Taught by astronomer Dimitar Sasselov, you will explore the process of searching for life on other planets and how those same concepts are used on earth.
Take this course at your own pace, spending as little as 1 hour a week on learning. You will be challenged in quizzes, live classes, and discussions for the ultimate learning experience.
You are encouraged to do your own research into the world of chemistry and the exploration of other planets to bring to class for dissecting.
11. Universe Or Multiverse?, Stanford University (World Science U)
If you are wanting to learn from the physicist themselves then this course offered by Stanford University is something you may want to consider.
Theoretical physicist Andrei Linde created the theory of inflationary multiverse and eternal inflation.
In this self-paced masterclass, you will learn from Linde about the growth of these ideas and how they may impact the evolution of cosmology.
Each topic will be taught through online videos, demonstrations, discussions, and exercises to provide you with an in-depth understanding of eternal inflation.
This is a great opportunity for those with a basic understanding of astronomy and cosmology to further their learning without the stress of attending in-class lectures.
As this course is accredited by Stanford University you will have an industry-recognized qualification allowing you to progress within your field of study.
A Final Word on the Best Online Astronomy Courses
Finding ways to further your education and develop your passions doesn’t have to be hard.
Thanks to affordable and convenient online courses, you can delve into the world outside the planet Earth from the comfort of your home.
Take a look at the list of the best online astronomy courses above and begin your journey into becoming an astronomer. From working with active scientists to learning from leading industry experts, there is a course for everyone.
No clue about astronomy? That’s okay! There are courses for beginners to help support you as you learn about the universe.
Have any questions about our guide to the best online astronomy courses? Let us know by commenting below.
