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 BSC PRACTICAL ASTROPHYSICS II
Code PHYS394
Coordinator Dr T Moore
Physics
T.Moore1@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2022-23 Level 6 FHEQ Whole Session 7.5

Aims

To provide practice in the planning and execution of a programme of astronomical observations.
To provide training in the application of astronomical co-ordinate systems.
To provide competence in the handling of a large astronomical telescope.
To gain experience in making, calibrating and analysing astronomical measurements using a CCD camera and spectrometer.
To employ knowledge gained during the programme to interpret astronomical datasets.
To develop team working skills when working in a scientific environment.
To gain awareness of the health and safety requirements of a scientific facility.
To undertake pre-defined mini-research projects utilising astronomical data.

Learning Outcomes

(LO1) The ability to plan and execute a simple programme of astronomical observations and measurements

(LO2) Familiarity with astronomical coordinate systems and the ability to find astronomical objects in the sky

(LO3) Skills in pointing and adjusting a large, manually controlled astronomical telescope

(S1) Planning and executing observation astronomy programme

(S2) Familiarity with astronomical coordinate systems

(S3) Ability to find astronomical objects in the sky

(S4) Skills in pointing and adjusting a large, manually controlled astronomical telescope

(S5) Experience of observing at a professional high-altitude observatory

(S6) Experience of preparing a written report based on the results of astronomical work

(S7) The ability to take, reduce and analyse astronomical data to produce physically meaningful information

Syllabus
 

Planning and execution of a programme of astronomical observations
Application of astronomical co-ordinate systems.
Handling and pointing of a large astronomical telescope.
Taking, calibrating, and analysing astronomical data using a CCD camera and other instrumentation.
Keeping an (electronic) experimental logbook.
Planning and undertaking of structured research projects based on collected or archival data.

Teaching and Learning Strategies

Teaching Method 1 - Field Work
Description: Use of the telescopes at the Teide Observatory to plan and execute astronomical observations. The students will also receive the relevant training and will reduce and analyse all collected data. Students will undertake several pre-defined mini-research projects, which will form the basis of their assessment.
Attendance Recorded: N/A

Notes: A combination of supervised practical work using the telescope and related equipment, and both supervised and un-supervised data analysis work

Teaching Schedule
  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours         50

   50
Timetable (if known)              
Private Study 25
TOTAL HOURS 75

Assessment
EXAM Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
             
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
Takes place over one week, assessment based upon completion of pre-prepared observatory worksheets / tasks (optional element for some tasks). Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This   0    100       

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