This course introduces students to the observational tools of modern astronomy. The course contains lectures and homework on the basics of observational astronomy, provides the theoretical background to understand modern observational techniques and describes the most important techniques and instruments.
The following topics will be covered in lectures and exercises:
Properties of radiation (black body, radiometry)
Atmospheric properties (transmission, emission, scattering, dispersion)
Telescopes (reflector, refractor, mounts, foci, ground/space telescopes)
Fourier transform (definition, properties, 1D/2D examples, theorems)
Geometrical & diffraction optics (image formation, PSF, aberrations)
Measurement properties (signal-to-noise, sensitivities, sampling)
Radio techniques (basics, antennae, receivers)
Detectors (physical basis, photo-conductors, bolometers, heterodyne)
Spectrometers (spectral information, dispersing elements, types)
Adaptive optics (principle, components, laser guide stars, types)
Interferometry (speckle interferometry, visibility, closure phase)
Students will know and be able to apply the most common techniques that are currently used to observe and understand the universe.
In this course, students will be trained in the following behaviour-oriented skills:
Problem solving (recognizing and analyzing problems, solution-oriented thinking)
Analytical skills (analytical thinking, abstraction, evidence)
Structured thinking (structure, modulated thinking, computational thinking, programming)
Responsibility (ownership, self-discipline, bear mistakes, accountability)
Motivation (commitment, pro-active attitude, initiative)
Self-regulation (independence, self-esteem, aware of own goals, motives and capacities)
Flexibility (adaptability, dealing with change, teachability, eagerness to learn)
Critical thinking (asking questions, check assumptions)
Creative thinking (resourcefulness, curiosity, thinking out of the box)
Mode of instruction
Written exam (100%), see Examination schedules bachelor Astronomy 2017-2018.
Homework assignments (1 bonus grade point if all homework has been submitted on time)
Blackboard will be used to send e-mail to students. To have access to Blackboard, you need an ULCN account. More information:
Observational Astrophysics, Lena (3rd edition, 2012), ISBN 9783642218149 (recommended)
Astrophysical Techniques, Kitchin (6th edition 2013), ISBN 9781466511156 (recommended)
Register via uSis. More information about signing up for classes and exams can be found here. Exchange and Study Abroad students, please see the Prospective students website for information on how to register. For a la carte and contract registration, please see the dedicated section on the Prospective students website.