In basic general science, what is the study of heavenly bodies such as stars, planets and galaxies called?

Introduction / Context:
This question checks understanding of scientific terminology related to the study of space. Many terms such as Astronomy, Astrology, Astrophysics and Astronautics sound similar but refer to different fields. Exams frequently test whether candidates can distinguish between scientific disciplines and pseudoscientific beliefs.

Given Data / Assumptions:
- The question refers to the study of heavenly bodies like stars and planets.
- Options include Astronomy, Astrology, Astrophysics, Astronautics and Cosmology.
- We assume that heavenly bodies means natural objects beyond the Earth such as planets, stars, satellites and galaxies.

Concept / Approach:
Astronomy is the science that systematically studies celestial objects, space and the universe as a whole using observation and theory. Astrology is a belief system that claims human affairs are influenced by the positions of celestial bodies. Astrophysics focuses on the physical properties and processes of celestial bodies, while Astronautics deals with the technology of space travel. Cosmology is the study of the universe at large scales. The basic school level term for study of heavenly bodies is Astronomy.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Identify what the question asks: the general name for the study of heavenly bodies. Step 2: Recall that Astronomy covers observation and analysis of stars, planets, comets and galaxies. Step 3: Recognise that Astrology is about horoscopes and predictions, not scientific study of celestial objects. Step 4: Note that Astrophysics and Cosmology are specialised branches within Astronomy, and Astronautics is about space travel technology. Step 5: Conclude that Astronomy is the best match to the question.

Verification / Alternative check:
Another way to check is to remember how school textbooks label chapters on stars and planets. They usually carry titles such as Introduction to Astronomy or The World of Stars. Astrophysics, Cosmology and Astronautics appear only in advanced courses. This confirms that Astronomy is the correct general term.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Astrology is wrong because it is a traditional belief system rather than a modern empirical science of celestial bodies.
Astrophysics is incorrect as the main answer because it is a branch of physics applying physical laws to celestial objects, not the broad basic name for the field.
Astronautics is wrong because it deals with designing rockets, satellites and spacecraft, not primarily with studying heavenly bodies themselves.
Cosmology focuses on the origin, structure and evolution of the universe as a whole and is a specialised part of Astronomy, not the basic general term.

Common Pitfalls:
Many candidates confuse Astronomy and Astrology because of similar spellings. Others may think Astrophysics sounds more scientific and pick it without noticing that the question asks for the general study of heavenly bodies at basic level. Careful reading of both the stem and the options helps avoid such traps.

Final Answer:
Thus, the study of heavenly bodies is called Astronomy.