Module Details
The information contained in this module specification was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change, either during the session because of unforeseen circumstances, or following review of the module at the end of the session. Queries about the module should be directed to the member of staff with responsibility for the module.
Title Advanced Observational Astrophysics
Code PHYS362
Coordinator Dr RP Schiavon
Physics
R.Schiavon@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2021-22 Level 6 FHEQ First Semester 7.5

Aims

To introduce students to the experimental techniques which enable astrophysicists to use the full range of the electromagnetic spectrum to study the physics of astronomical objects; to become familiar with the design of telescopes across the electromagnetic spectrum; to understand the physical basis of light detection across the spectrum; to understand observing techniques such as photometry, spectroscopy, adaptive optics, interferometry.

Learning Outcomes

(LO1) Understand and be able to compare and contrast the basic techniques and problems involved in observing all wavelengths of the electromagnetic spectrum

(LO2) Understand and be able to use and experimental concepts, as applied to observational astrophysics, of signal-to-noise ratio, sampling, resolution.

(LO3) Be able to determine the observing technique most appropriate for a given scientific goal

(S1) Be able to plan observations at a variety of wavelengths.

Syllabus
 

Telescopes and detectors. Basic design of telescopes and detectors across the electromagnetic spectrum, with a focus on sub-mm to optical. Physical principles, operations. Spectroscopic/dispersive techniques. Observing and data analysis techniques. Sampling, resolution. Signal-to-noise ratio, data quality assessment. Calibration of raw data. Photometry and spectroscopy. Adaptive optics. Interferometry.

Teaching and Learning Strategies

Teaching Method 1 - Lecture
Attendance Recorded: Yes

Teaching Method 2 - Tutorial
Attendance Recorded: Yes

Teaching Schedule
  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours 18

   4

       22
Timetable (if known)              
Private Study 53
TOTAL HOURS 75

Assessment
EXAM Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
Final Examination There is a resit opportunity. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is an anonymous assessment. Assessment Schedule (When): Semester 1  2.5 hours    80       
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
Class Test 1 (5%) posted on 8 November, due on 12 November 5pm (week 7) There is a resit opportunity. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is an anonymous assessment.  1 hour    5       
Class Test 3 (10%) posted on 6 December, due on 10 December 5pm (week 11) There is a resit opportunity. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is an anonymous assessment.      10       
Class Test 2 (5%) posted on 22 November, due on 26 November 5pm (week 9) There is a resit opportunity. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is an anonymous assessment.      5       

Recommended Texts
Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module.