ASP3231 · Observational astronomy

Overview

This unit gives you theoretical background and practical experience in modern observational astronomy. You will study telescope optics, spectroscopy, CCD imaging, image processing, statistics, astronomical distances, stellar evolution, extrasolar planets, neutron stars and galaxies. you will undertake an observational project, including an astronomical observing session and analysis of the observation - this is a substantial component of ASP3231.

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

Learning outcomes

1. Explain and understand the concepts taught in the unit, including astronomical instrumentation, data processing, photometry and spectroscopy;
2. Describe how we observe celestial objects across the electromagnetic spectrum and how these observations are used to understand the nature of celestial objects;
3. Evaluate the accuracy of astronomical instrumentation and observations, including angular resolution, spectroscopic resolution and photometric precision;
4. Apply their knowledge to execute an observing program and use astronomical imaging to understand the nature of a celestial object;
5. Present and communicate the results of an astronomical observing program.

Workload

The workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours spread across the semester (roughly 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 3-5 hours of astronomical observing after hours (evening) using our facilities on Martin St, with the exact timing being weather dependent.

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