PX2338: Observational Techniques in Astronomy
School | Cardiff School of Physics & Astronomy |
Department Code | PHYSX |
Module Code | PX2338 |
External Subject Code | 100415 |
Number of Credits | 20 |
Level | L5 |
Language of Delivery | English |
Module Leader | Dr Miranda Jackson |
Semester | Double Semester |
Academic Year | 2015/6 |
Outline Description of Module
To introduce the theory and practice of making and interpreting astronomical observations.
To provide a practical introduction to, and in-depth knowledge of, the principles of telescopes, observational astronomy, detector technology and spectroscopy at various wavelengths.
To provide the necessary skills to undertake a third-year or fourth-year practical astronomy project.
To provide an introduction to the principle of detection, including signal-to-noise testing for correlations and fitting curves and datasets.
On completion of the module a student should be able to
Take, reduce and analyse astronomical data from optical and radio telescopes.
Plan astronomical observations and interpret the resulting data.
Demonstrate a working knowledge of how to use basic astronomical instrumentation, including telescopes, CCD cameras, spectrographs and radio receivers.
Compare and contrast the physical principles of telescopes, detectors and spectroscopes used for each range of the electromagnetic spectrum.
Use statistical arguments to extract information from observational data.
How the module will be delivered
Laboratory sessions 22 x 4 hrs.
Skills that will be practised and developed
Experimental physics. Communications skills. Personal skills. Problem solving. Investigative skills. Mathematics. Computing skills. Analytical skills. Ethical behaviour.
How the module will be assessed
Laboratory diaries, two formal reports, written exercises
Assessment Breakdown
Type | % | Title | Duration(hrs) |
---|---|---|---|
Written Assessment | 100 | Observational Techniques In Astronomy | N/A |
Syllabus content
The properties of photons: the E-M spectrum, intensity flux and luminosity. Polarisation.
The atmosphere: Atmospheric absorption. Seeing and coherence length. Atmospheric windows. The secant law.
Colour-magnitude and colour-colour diagrams: Reddening and dust extinction. Column density. Dust mass.
Astronomical coordinate systems: Precession and time. Right ascension and declination. Altitude and azimuth. Hour angle. Epoch and equinox.
Statistics of detection: Mean and standard deviation. Binomial and Gaussian distributions. Signal-to-noise ratio. Goodness of fit. Hypothesis testing.
Focal stations: Newtonian, Cassegrain, Nasmyth, Coude, Schmidt.
Telescope and detector design: Optical spectroscopy, radio telescopes, infrared telescopes. UV and X-ray satellites, gamma-ray satellites. Gravitational wave detection and cosmic rays.
Essential Reading and Resource List
Please see Background Reading List for an indicative list.
Background Reading and Resource List
Astrophysical Techniques, C R Kitchin (IOP 4th Edn.)
Observational Astrophysics, R C Smith (CUP).