ASP2011 · Astronomy

Overview

An introduction to modern astronomy, with an emphasis on using astronomical observations to understand the stars, galaxies and the universe as a whole. You will be 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 are discussed in detail, including imaging and spectroscopy. Visible and radio wavelength observations will be interpreted to determine the velocities, distances, masses, and the cosmological expansion of the Universe, Practical work is a key component of this unit, including an astronomical observing session and analysis of data from major observatories.

Areas of study: Astrophysics Physics

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. Use fundamental concepts in observational astronomy to model the motion of the planets and stars, to measure the brightness of celestial objects using astronomical images, and to determine astronomical distances.
2. Explain the workings and limitations of telescopes and interferometers, to quantify their angular resolution and limitations, and describe how astronomers use these instruments to obtain images and spectra.
3. Use optical, infrared and radio observations to measure stellar masses, stellar radii, astronomical distances, temperatures and the expansion of the Universe.
4. Interpret astronomical observations and justify conclusions drawn via a concise and accurate written report.

Workload

The workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours spread across the semester (approximately 12 hours per week) - approximately an even mixture of attendance at scheduled activities and self-scheduled study time. Learning activities comprise a mixture of instructor-directed, peer-directed and self-directed learning, which includes face-to-face and online engagement. Note: the unit includes a commitment of 2 hours of astronomical observing after hours (evening) on the Clayton Campus, with the exact timing being weather dependent.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.