Introduction to Astronomy and Space Science | PHYS1005

Module overview

The module shows how simple physical principles can be used to learn about the Universe. The focus is upon how one can measure physical quantities such as size, distance, temperature, age and mass for the variety of objects in the Universe. By its end students should be able to appreciate topics of current interest in astronomy and cosmology.

Students should be aware that this module requires A-level physics (with a C grade or above) and A-level maths (grade C or above).

Aims and Objectives

Learning Outcomes

Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

Have an appreciation of the relative distances, sizes and masses of the various objects in the Universe

Knowledge and Understanding

Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:

Understand how the distances, sizes and masses of astrophysical objects can be measured
Know the essentials of astronomical measurements of brightness and velocities
Know about the expansion of the Universe and how observations can lead to the determination of its age, mass and future evolution
Understand how the elements are formed inside stars

Syllabus

Solar system:

the properties of the planets and moons
solar system physics including formation
comets and asteroids

Exoplanets:

classification
detection methods
state-of-the-art

Stars:

The Hertzsprung-Russell (H-R) diagram; H-R diagrams of star clusters; classification of stars from their position in the H-R diagram
The dependence of stellar properties and timescales on mass
The determination of the ages of clusters
Physical conditions within stars
Nuclear fusion
Stellar evolution
Core-collapse supernovae
White dwarfs, neutron stars and black-holes

Galaxies:

Classification of galaxies by their appearance
Galaxy interactions
The Milky Way
Active galaxies
Radio jets

Cosmology:

The expansion of the Universe
The Cosmic Microwave Background
The Big Bang model
Measurement of the age and mass and the future evolution of the Universe

Learning and Teaching

Teaching and learning methods

Teaching will be primarily by delivered lectures, and learning is enhanced by problem sheets.

Study time
Type	Hours
Wider reading or practice	36
Preparation for scheduled sessions	15
Lecture	28
Completion of assessment task	56
Follow-up work	15
Total study time	150

Resources & Reading list

Textbooks

Chaisson & McMillan. Astronomy Today - Global Edition. Pearson.

Assessment

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Breakdown
Method	Percentage contribution
Continuous Assessment	100%

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.

Breakdown
Method	Percentage contribution
Set Task	100%

Repeat

An internal repeat is where you take all of your modules again, including any you passed. An external repeat is where you only re-take the modules you failed.

Breakdown
Method	Percentage contribution
Set Task	100%

Repeat Information

Repeat type: Internal & External