Module Details

Module Code: PHYS6051
Title: Astronomy & Instrumentation
Long Title: Astronomy & Instrumentation
NFQ Level: Fundamental
Valid From: Semester 1 - 2019/20 ( September 2019 )
Duration: 1 Semester
Credits: 5
Field of Study: 4411 - Physics
Module Delivered in: 3 programme(s)
Module Description: This module gives the student an introduction to the science, optics, instrumentation and data analysis associated with Astronomy.
 
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to:
# Learning Outcome Description
LO1 Describe and explain optical systems used in astronomy
LO2 Describe and explain methods and instrumentation used for photon detection in astronomy
LO3 Describe the evolution and structure of the Universe
LO4 Explain the Solar System in terms of its origins and structure
LO5 Use instrumentation and software for image acquisition and data analysis
Dependencies
Module Recommendations

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is strongly recommended before enrolment in this module. You may enrol in this module if you have not acquired the recommended learning but you will have considerable difficulty in passing (i.e. achieving the learning outcomes of) the module. While the prior learning is expressed as named MTU module(s) it also allows for learning (in another module or modules) which is equivalent to the learning specified in the named module(s).
Incompatible Modules
These are modules which have learning outcomes that are too similar to the learning outcomes of this module. You may not earn additional credit for the same learning and therefore you may not enrol in this module if you have successfully completed any modules in the incompatible list.
No incompatible modules listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Requirements

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is mandatory before enrolment in this module is allowed. You may not enrol on this module if you have not acquired the learning specified in this section.
No requirements listed
 
Indicative Content
Methods and instrumentation used for photon detection in astronomy
Observations windows for astronomy, Photometry methods. CCD, CMOS imagers. Photomultiplier tubes. Instrumentation for detection at different wavelengths.
Describe and explain optical systems used in astronomy
Types of telescope. Performance metrics. Practical limitations to performance due to the atmosphere - optical aberrations etc. Celestial coordinates. Recording images using CCDs.
Explain the Solar System in terms of its origins and structure
The Sun, Earth and Moon, inner planets, outer planets. Exploration and search for life in the solar system. Space travel within the solar system. Satellites & Space junk.
Describe the evolution and structure of the Universe
The Big Bang and expansion of the Universe. Stars and Galaxies. Origin of the elements. Supernovae and Black Holes.
Laboratory experiments in astronomy
Analysis of sun spot data from the SIDC, working with bias/dark/flat frames produced by a CCD camera, astronomical image processing and the impact of the atmosphere on image acquisition, using planetarium software to understand coordinate systems and telescope fields of view.
Module Content & Assessment
Assessment Breakdown%
Coursework100.00%

Assessments

Coursework
Assessment Type Short Answer Questions % of Total Mark 35
Timing Week 7 Learning Outcomes 1,2
Assessment Description
This assessment tests the knowledge and understanding of optical and data acquisition systems used in Astronomy
Assessment Type Short Answer Questions % of Total Mark 35
Timing Week 12 Learning Outcomes 3,4
Assessment Description
This assessment deals with the science associated with the foundation and evolution of the Solar System and Universe
Assessment Type Practical/Skills Evaluation % of Total Mark 30
Timing Every Second Week Learning Outcomes 5
Assessment Description
Laboratory reports and skills test examinations on practical aspects of the module.
No End of Module Formal Examination
Reassessment Requirement
Coursework Only
This module is reassessed solely on the basis of re-submitted coursework. There is no repeat written examination.

The University reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment

 

Module Workload

Workload: Full Time
Workload Type Contact Type Workload Description Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload Hours
Lecture Contact Delivery of module content. Every Week 3.00 3
Lab Contact Laboratory experiments in astronomy. Every Week 1.00 1
Independent Learning Non Contact Study of module material. Every Week 3.00 3
Total Hours 7.00
Total Weekly Learner Workload 7.00
Total Weekly Contact Hours 4.00
Workload: Part Time
Workload Type Contact Type Workload Description Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload Hours
Lecture Contact Delivery of module content. Every Week 3.00 3
Lab Contact Laboratory experiments in astronomy. Every Week 1.00 1
Independent Learning Non Contact Study of module material. Every Week 3.00 3
Total Hours 7.00
Total Weekly Learner Workload 7.00
Total Weekly Contact Hours 4.00
 
Module Resources
Recommended Book Resources
  • Roger A. Freedman, Robert M. Geller, William J.. (2019), Universe, 11th. 27, WH Freeman, p.896, [ISBN: 1319248640].
  • Eric Chaisson, Steve McMillan. (2014), Astronomy Today, 8th. 28, Pearson, p.828, [ISBN: 9781292057736].
  • Steve B Howell. (2006), Handbook of CCD Astronomy, 2nd. 7, Cambridge University Press, p.224, [ISBN: 0521617626].
This module does not have any article/paper resources
Other Resources
 
Module Delivered in
Programme Code Programme Semester Delivery
CR_SCHEM_7 Bachelor of Science in Analytical and Pharmaceutical Chemistry 2 Mandatory
CR_SPHYS_7 Bachelor of Science in Applied Physics and Instrumentation 2 Elective
CR_SPHYS_6 Higher Certificate in Science in Applied Physics and Instrumentation 2 Elective