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SUBJECTS OFFERED BY THE CENTRE FOR ASTRONOMY
AS5011:06 MODERN ASTROPHYSICS
This subject is an introduction to the physics and mathematics of astronomy. The subject will 'Tour the Universe' and introduce the sciences of the various objects. The subject then introduces topics in the physical sciences and mathematics relevant to astronomy for students without a strong university background in science and mathematics (and as a revision for some students). Topics include the nature of light, astronomical and spectroscopic optics, spectroscopy, the Doppler effect, relativity, quantum mechanics, aspects of atomic physics, nuclear physics, particle physics, statistics and spherical trigonometry. We then address, in some detail, the astrophysics of the planetary systems, the stars, gas nebula, dust in the Milky Way Galaxy, other galaxies, quasars and the nature of the Universe.
AS5012:06 ASTRONOMY INSTRUMENTATION
This subject concentrates on ground-based optical and radio observational and remote sensing techniques; on spacecraft (for planetary exploration) and space telescopes. Topics include optical telescope types, photography, CCD imaging, image processing, time measurement, astrometry, spectrographs and spectroscopy, radio telescopes, radio interferometry, radio spectroscopy. We also study space astronomy techniques and instrumentation, the Hubble Space Telescope, orbiting infrared, X-ray, gamma ray telescopes, space VLBI, planetary probes, remote sensing, robotic and human exploration of the Moon and Mars, and the economics of commercial spacecraft.
AS5021:06 THE SOLAR SYSTEM
This subject concentrates on the physics, chemistry and dynamics of the Solar System. Here we study the nature of the bodies that make up the Solar System, its dynamics and its formation and evolution. The techniques used to study the Solar System are covered, including a history of ground-based observation, space probes, and exotic missions. To cover this subject comprehensively, we must study solar type systems in their environment of interstellar space; and study some of their less known members, and their chemical compositions. The life processes will be looked at briefly and we will explore the possibilities of finding life elsewhere in the Solar System, and in other solar type systems.
AS5022:06 GALACTIC ASTRONOMY AND COSMOLOGY
This subject concentrates on the physics of stars, galaxies and cosmology. Topics include the interstellar medium, stellar astrophysics, the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram and the evolution of stars, the dynamics of stellar systems, galaxy composition, and the dynamics and evolution of galaxies. We will also concentrate on the nature of the Universe and its evolution. Topics include Black Holes, cosmology, the Big Bang, Curvature, Inflation, particle physics and Grand Unified Theories.
ALTERNATIVE SUBJECTS - For special requirements
AS5031:06 SPECIAL ASTRONOMY TOPIC A
This subject will allow students to study a topic not yet specified, and can thus be tailored to the special needs of the student, and can exploit opportunities in the discipline. This is a six unit subject that will also allow flexibility in the scheduling of the Doctor of Astronomy degree program. As there is no specified content for this subject the nature of the subject is to be agreed with the Centre for Astronomy/School of Mathematics and Physical Sciences at JCU.
AS5032:03 SPECIAL ASTRONOMY TOPIC B
This subject will allow students to study a topic not yet specified, and can thus be tailored to the special needs of the student, and can exploit opportunities in the discipline. This is a three unit subject that will also allow flexibility in the scheduling of the Doctor of Astronomy degree program. As there is no specified content for this subject the nature of the subject is to be agreed with the Centre for Astronomy/School of Mathematics and Physical Sciences at JCU.
AS5033:03 SPECIAL ASTRONOMY TOPIC C
This subject will allow students to study a topic not yet specified, and can thus be tailored to the special needs of the student, and can exploit opportunities in the discipline. This is a three unit subject that will also allow flexibility in the scheduling of the Certificate of Astronomy program. As there is no specified content for this subject the nature of the subject is to be agreed with the Centre for Astronomy/School of Mathematics and Physical Sciences at JCU.
