PX4125: Instrumentation for Astronomy
| School | Cardiff School of Physics & Astronomy |
| Department Code | PHYSX |
| Module Code | PX4125 |
| External Subject Code | 100425 |
| Number of Credits | 10 |
| Level | L7 |
| Language of Delivery | English |
| Module Leader | PROFESSOR Carole Tucker |
| Semester | Autumn Semester |
| Academic Year | 2015/6 |
Outline Description of Module
To introduce students to the use of spectroscopic, photometric and interferometric instruments for astronomy.
To establish a good understanding of the principles of optical design and the technical challenges of detection across the EM spectrum.
To provide an appreciation the practical aspects of designing and operating modern astronomical instruments.
To develop research skills, computing skills and the foster the ability to work independently.
On completion of the module a student should be able to
Demonstrate an understanding of the current frontiers of astronomy and the technological challenges associated with them.
Demonstrate an understanding of the principles of detection and the fundamental limits of technologies used.
Show knowledge of the principles involved in end-to-end modelling of optical instruments.
How the module will be delivered
Lectures 22 x 1 hr, Exercises 11 x 1 hr.
Skills that will be practised and developed
Problem solving. Analytical skills. Investigative skills. Modelling skills. Communication Skills.
How the module will be assessed
Examination and Continuous assessment
Assessment Breakdown
| Type | % | Title | Duration(hrs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exam - Autumn Semester | 50 | Instrumentation For Astronomy | 1 |
| Written Assessment | 50 | Instrumentation For Astronomy | N/A |
Syllabus content
The basics: advances in astronomy and relationship with technology; review of interaction of radiation with matter; review of EM principles and radiation theory; key concepts in measurement.
Photometry or Spectroscopy: physics of particular sources; continuum and line radiation.
Telescopes and Optics: fundamental and practical criteria; geometrical optics (IR-UV); Gaussian optics (radio-FIR); throughput; image quality; Antennae (radio), dish (radio-UV), grazing incidence (X-ray) telescopes; interferometry; review current state of the art research facilities.
Detection: Measurement concepts (linearity, dynamic range, frequency range, speed of observation, etc.); fundamental limits to sensitivity; noise; detection capabilities across EM wavebands.
Spectometry: orbital or sub-orbital observation; Radio devices; FTS or gratings systems; FPs; X & γ-ray instruments.
Interferometry: EM; non EM - GW input here?
Instrument design: Consider 4 real instruments (i.e. case studies of Radio, IR, optical and X-ray instruments); illustrate the basic concepts inherent in the instrument design; understand instrumental limitations are detection choices.
Instrument modelling: modelling a typical source to determine observable signals; development of end-to-end instrument models; use of a dummy source; feedback to instrument design; calibration.
Cataloguing: archiving observations; accessibility and databases.