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Backyard Meteorology: The Science of Weather

HarvardX course on reading the sky and forecasting tomorrow's weather from your own observations.

Taught byHarvard Online
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About this course

Professor John Huth explains the physics of air, water and wind in weather systems and teaches practical skills such as identifying clouds, estimating local winds and making next-day forecasts from observations.

Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts and beginners curious about weather and climate.

What you will be able to do

  • Explain how air, water and wind drive weather
  • Identify cloud types and fronts
  • Recognise thunderstorm and tornado conditions
  • Make simple next-day forecasts from observations

Syllabus and your progress

Tick modules off as you finish them on Harvard Online.

0 of 4 modules done

Plan your pace

At 4 hours a week you would finish in about 6 weeks, using the course time estimate above.

Progress is saved in this browser only. No account needed.

Cost and certificate

Paid certificate

Free to audit on edX; the verified certificate costs $149.

Harvard Online sets the terms and can change them. Check the course page before you commit serious time, and tell us if something changed.

Quick answers

Is Backyard Meteorology: The Science of Weather really free?
Yes, the course material is free on Harvard Online. Free to audit on edX; the verified certificate costs $149.
How long does Backyard Meteorology: The Science of Weather take?
Plan for about 24 hrs in total (Provider estimate: 6 weeks at 3-5 hrs/week.). It is self-paced, so you can go faster or slower.
Do I need experience before Backyard Meteorology: The Science of Weather?
No. It is a beginner course with no prerequisites listed.

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Backyard Meteorology: The Science of Weather

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