Our Universe (UNI | SPA4101)

Year: 1 | Semester: B | Level: 4 | Credits: 15

Course organiser: Prof Richard Nelson | Course deputy: Dr Chris Clarkson

Synopsis:

The course is a broad survey of Astronomy aiming to acquaint students with evolution of the universe and its constituents. A particular theme is the role played by the known laws of physics in understanding astronomical observation. Students will: gain a familiarity with the constituents of the observed universe; appreciate, and be able to explain, the important part played by the laws of physics in designing observations, and in interpreting and understanding them; be able to explain the different types of information obtainable from observations across the entire electromagnetic spectrum from gamma rays to radio waves.

Aims:

The aims of the course are: to acquaint students with a wide-ranging view of the universe from the solar system to stars, the Galaxy, its constituents and to the universe beyond our galaxy; to inform them of the role played by the known laws of physics in our understanding of the observed universe; to train them to use astronomical information sources, especially those on the web providing services both to the astronomer and the layman; to provide the opportunity for students to gain experience of writing and talking about astronomy at a level either appropriate to a scientist or a layman.

Outcomes:

By the end of the course students should: have gained a familiarity with the constituents of the observed universe; appreciate the important part played by the laws of physics in making observations, and interpreting and understanding them; be able to explain the different types of information obtainable from observations across the entire wavelength range from gamma rays to radio waves; have gained a familiarity with astronomical resources on the web and in the library; be able to give written accounts and and oral presentations on topics related to the course at a level appropriate to a particular audience by using web and library resources.

Recommended books:

Kaufmann, W.J. & Freedman, R.A.
Universe
W.H. Freeman, (6th edition, 2001)
ISBN 0-7167-4647-6

Chaisson, E. & McMillan, S.
Astronomy Today
Prentice Hall, (2001)
ISBN 0-13-091542-4