ASP2011 - Astronomy - 2017

An introduction to modern astronomy, with an emphasis on using astronomical observations to understand the evolution of stars, galaxies and the Universe. Students are introduced to the night sky and how to navigate around it using astronomical coordinates. The design, performance and use of visible and radio wavelength telescopes is discussed in detail, including imaging and spectroscopy. Visible and radio wavelength observations will be interpreted to determine the distances, masses, ages and evolution of stars and galaxies. Practical work in workshops is a key component of this unit, including an astronomical observing session and analysis of data from major observatories.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Perform calculations involving fundamental concepts in observational astronomy, including the motion of the planets in the night sky and measuring the brightness of celestial objects using astronomical images.
2. Understand the workings and limitations of reflecting and refracting telescopes and how astronomers determine the distances, luminosities, masses, radii and temperatures of stars.
3. Use radio and Hubble Space Telescope observations to measure the expansion of the Universe.
4. Understand how multi-wavelength astronomy provides information about neutron stars, black holes and galaxies.
5. Interpret astronomical observations and justify conclusions drawn via a concise and accurate written report.

Examination (3 hours): 50%

Written assignments: 15%

Workshop: 35%

Hurdle requirements: Students must achieve a pass mark in the workshop component to achieve an overall pass grade.

• Three 1-hour lectures/tutorials per week
• One 3-hour workshop per week
• Six hours of independent study per week

See also Unit timetable information

Associate Professor Michael Brown

Astrophysics

Physics

One unit (six points) of physics at first-year level, and MTH1020 or MTH1030 or MTH1035 or ENG1005 or equivalent