Setting up and calibrating equipment
Become familiar with equipment used in later modules
Taking reliable and reproducible data
Develop understanding of various techniques of data gathering and analysis in modern astrophysics
Calculating experimental results and their associated uncertainties
Using computer software, including specific astrophysical software, to analyse data
Writing a coherent account of the experimental procedure and conclusions
Understanding physics in depth by performing specific experiments
Developing practical, technical and computing skills required for later modules

(LO1) Improved practical skills and experience.

(LO2) A detailed understanding of the fundamental physics and/or astrophysics behind the experiments.

(LO3) Increased confidence in setting up and calibrating equipment.

(LO4) Familiarity with IT package for calculating, displaying and presenting results

(LO5) Familiarity with subject specific astrophysics data analysis software.

(LO6) Enhanced ability to plan, execute and report the results of an investigation.

(LO7) Knowledge of the methods employed in the detection and analysis of light at optical wavelengths from astrophysical sources

(LO8) A clear understanding of the methods employed in astronomical photometry and spectroscopy.

(LO9) Experience of the acquisition, reduction and analysis of astronomical data.

1

The laboratory-based section of the module will consist of nine practical experiments in the general areas of optics and the detection and analysis of optical frequency light, for example:

The characteristics of an astronomical CCD camera.
Pre-processing astronomical imaging and spectroscopic data.
The photometric and spectroscopic analysis of data.
Astrophysical distance determination.
The emission spectra of atomic hydrogen
The phenomenon of diffraction and the use of diffraction gratings.

2

The lecture component will concentrate on positional astronomy and astronomical photometry, including the following areas:

Signal to noise calculations.
Detectors.
Filter systems.
Relative and absolute photometry.
Atmospheric effects.
Photometric standards.
Coordinate transformations.

The lectures will be complemented by a number of problem classes, which will be used t o complete problems based on the lecture topics. A number of these problems and a final timed exercise will count towards the assessment.

Teaching Method 1:
Lecture
Description:
Lectures to provide background about the practicalities of taking optical astronomical observations
Attendance Recorded:
Yes
Notes:
6x 2-hours lectures/week in the first six weeks of the first semester. 1x 2-hour revision lecture in the 11th week of the second semester

Teaching Method 2:
Laboratory Work
Description:
Lab based sessions to explore the technicalities of astronomical data collection and analysis
Attendance Recorded:
Yes
Notes:
14x 6-hour practicals. These take place in the last six weeks of semester 1 and the first eight weeks of semester 2.

Teaching Method 3:
Other
Description:
Problem classes to aid with assed worksheets set in the lectures
Attendance Recorded:
Yes