Courses & Units
Experimental Astrophysics, Geodesy and Geophysics KYA407
Introduction
This Honours level unit will be taught as part of the coursework component of the respective degree. Honours students have some degree of flexibility in choosing their units, and should consult with their project supervisor for the most appropriate choices. This unit is one of four units at the required level that can be undertaken in the Honours year, in addition to the research thesis project. This unit is relevant to those students intending to undertake an astrophysics, geodetic VLBI, or geophysics research project. The successful design and execution of astrophysical observations requires an in depth knowledge of the telescope, its instruments and their operation. The aim of this project-based unit is to give students a theoretical and practical introduction to fundamental astronomical observation techniques. It will cover the design parameters which govern the performance of radio and optical telescopes, and a range of astronomical observing techniques, including radiometery, spectroscopy, interferometry and photometry. The theory covered in the lectures will be put into practice through a series of observational projects at the Mt Pleasant radio telescope and Bisdee Tier optical telescope, subject to availability.
Summary
| Unit name | Experimental Astrophysics, Geodesy and Geophysics |
|---|---|
| Unit code | KYA407 |
| Credit points | 12.5 |
| College/School | College of Sciences and Engineering School of Natural Sciences |
| Discipline | Physics |
| Coordinator | Professor Andrew Cole |
| Delivered By | University of Tasmania |
Availability
This unit is currently unavailable.
Note
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Unit census dates currently displaying for 2024 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2024 will be available from the 1st October 2023. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).
Learning Outcomes
- Apply the principles of radio astronomy signal detection and processing to astrophysical processing
- Apply the principles of optical and near infrared detection and data processing to astronomical analysis.
- Formulate and test hypotheses regarding astronomical objects by undertaking a quantitative practical experiment.
- Analyse electromagnetic astronomical signals across a range of wavelengths to evaluate the physical properties of the relevant objects.
- Communicate the results of astronomical research projects to an audience of peers and summarise those results for the public.
Fee Information
| Field of Education | Commencing Student Contribution 1,3 | Grandfathered Student Contribution 1,3 | Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution 2,3 | Domestic Full Fee 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| not applicable |
1 Please refer to more information on student contribution amounts.
2 Please refer to more information on eligibility and Approved Pathway courses.
3 Please refer to more information on eligibility for HECS-HELP.
4 Please refer to more information on eligibility for FEE-HELP.
If you have any questions in relation to the fees, please contact UConnect or more information is available on StudyAssist.
Please note: international students should refer to What is an indicative Fee? to get an indicative course cost.
Requisites
Prerequisites
At least one of (KYA320 Advanced Electromagnetism OR KYA3xx Stellar and Planetary Physics OR KYA306 Astrophysics OR KYA322 Solid State Physics & Statistical Physics OR KYA323 Atomic & Nuclear Physics)Teaching
| Teaching Pattern | 3 x 50 minute lecture weekly, 1 x 50 minute tutorial weekly and 2 x 3-hr labs |
|---|---|
| Assessment | Fortnightly Problem Set Assignments (30%)|Optical Astronomy Experiment (35%)|Radio Astronomy Practical (35%) |
| Timetable | View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable |
Textbooks
| Required |
Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes. |
Links | Booktopia textbook finder |
|---|
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