Overview

This unit gives you theoretical background and practical experience in modern observational astronomy. You will study telescope optics, spectroscopy, CCD imaging, image processing, statistics, astronomical distances, stellar evolution, extrasolar planets, neutron stars and galaxies. you will undertake an observational project, including an astronomical observing session and analysis of the observation … For more content click the Read More button below.

Offerings

S1-01-CLAYTON-ON-CAMPUS

Contacts

Chief Examiner(s)

Associate Professor Michael Brown

Unit Coordinator(s)

Associate Professor Michael Brown

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, you should be able to:
1.

Explain and understand the concepts taught in the unit, including astronomical instrumentation, data processing, photometry and spectroscopy;

2.

Describe how we observe celestial objects across the electromagnetic spectrum and how these observations are used to understand the nature of celestial objects;

3.

Evaluate the accuracy of astronomical instrumentation and observations, including angular resolution, spectroscopic resolution and photometric precision;

4.

Apply their knowledge to execute an observing program and use astronomical imaging to understand the nature of a celestial object;

5.

Present and communicate the results of an astronomical observing program.

Teaching approach

Active learning

Assessment

1 - Laboratory
2 - Project
3 - Assignments
4 - Final assessment - Exam (2 hours and 10 minutes)

Scheduled and non-scheduled teaching activities

Laboratories
Seminars

Workload requirements

Workload

Other unit costs

Costs are indicative and subject to change.

Scientific non- programmable calculator - $30

Miscellaneous items required - $20

Costs of travel to and/or from the Monash Clayton Campus for the after-hours astronomical observing session.

Availability in areas of study

Astrophysics
Physics