Our astrophysics degree courses

Year 1

Our Evolving Universe

The course provides a general overview of astronomy suitable for those with no previous experience of the subject. The principal topics covered are (1) the structure and evolution of stars, (2) the structure of the Milky Way, and the classification, structure and evolution of galaxies in general, (3) an introduction to cosmology and (4) extrasolar planets and an introduction to astrobiology.

Introduction to Astrophysics

This module aims to equip students with a basic understanding of the important physical concepts and techniques involved in astronomy with an emphasis on how fundamental results can be derived from fairly simple observations. The module will also cover Astronomical Spectroscopy and Gravitational Astrophysics. The lectures are supported by problem classes and laboratory work.

Year 2

Astronomical Techniques

This course aims to provide an understanding of the tools and techniques used by astronomers to study the Universe, with an emphasis on ground-based optical observations. Topics covered include: astronomical telescopes, astronomical instruments and electronic detectors. This module builds on the Year 1 introduction to astrophysics and the topics covered in the first year astronomy lab. The module is designed to prepare students choosing to do observing projects in their third year and fourth (including the Tenerife field trip), and those intending to spend a year abroad on La Palma. As part of this module, all students must do an observing project using the University's 16 inch telescope.

Extra-solar Planets and Astrobiology

The module will cover the fundamental concepts in extrasolar planetary science and astrobiology. We will examine the methods used to discover extrasolar planets, both present and planned. We will then discuss current theories of planet formation and evolution in light of the planets we have discovered. We will examine life on Earth its origin, processes, evolution, and interaction with the Earth in the context of our only current example of life. We will then discuss the possibilities and search for life in the Solar System and beyond. In the context of the previous discussions we will critically examine ideas about the frequency of life, advanced life, and intelligent technological civilisations in the Universe.

In this course we ask the basic questions: does other life exist, what is it like, and how can we find it? We obviously cannot answer these questions yet (although we hope to), and so this course concentrates on how to frame these questions within current scientific knowledge and thinking. For many aspects of this course there is no ‘correct answer’, just many competing theories and ideas.

Galaxies

This module aims to provide a comprehensive introduction to galaxies. It consists of six parts: (i) astronomical distance determination and galaxy classification; (ii) the properties of the main stellar and a gas components of our Milky Way galaxy, and its local environment; (iii) the properties of spiral galaxies; (iv) the properties of elliptical galaxies; (v) active galaxies; (vi) galaxy evolution. Students’ presentation and research skills are developed through a 2500 word essay assignment.

Year 3

Introduction to Cosmology

Cosmology is the science of the whole Universe: its past history, present structure and future evolution. In this module we discuss how our understanding of cosmology has developed over time, and study the observed properties of the universe, particularly the rate of expansion, the chemical composition, and the nature of the cosmic microwave background, can be used to constrain theoretical models and obtain value for the parameters of the now-standard Hot Big Bang cosmological model.

Stellar Atmospheres

This module describes how astronomers obtain information about the properties of stars from their atmospheres. On completion, students should be able to appreciate differences between the main spectral types, understand how the interaction of radiation with matter affects the appearance of a stellar atmosphere, including the major sources of opacity. Students will have a knowledge of the formation of spectral lines, line broadening mechanisms, plus an appreciation of the use of stellar continua and lines as atmospheric diagnostics. The outer solar atmosphere will also be discussed, together with outflows from late and early type stars.

Astronomy Research Project

This Year 3 Astronomy module provides an opportunity for students to develop and exercise their skills and ability to undertake independent, albeit closely supervised, research. Students are able to select from a wide variety of proposals for projects, many involving practical observation and field work; others are essentially theoretical or interpretative or require the development of computer programmes designed to simulate a variety of astronomical phenomena. Many projects are collaborative and encourage students to work with others in a team, especially those projects involving a field trip (currently to a telescope on La Palma). Assessment is based on individual written reports and oral examination. These provide exercise in presentational skills.

Year 4

Cosmic Origins

This module aims to develop qualitative understanding of current developments at the frontiers of astrophysics, within a general historical context. Cosmic Origins spans various aspects of contemporary astrophysics at a research level. The topics include: (a) observations and theory of star and planet formation; (b) advanced topics in stellar evolution; (c) The Transient Universe; (d) Formation and evolution of galaxies, including observations of high red-shift galaxies.

High Energy Astrophysics

The purpose of this module is to give a taste of a field at the forefront of current astronomical research, and to give a thorough understanding of high energy emission processes. Following an historical introduction to place the area in context, the theory of high energy emission processes is developed from first principles. The theory is then applied to explain various phenomena associated with active galactic nuclei and quasars the most luminous objects in the universe. The students' research and presentation skills are developed through a directed reading project on topics in high energy astrophysics and their problem solving skills through homework questions.