Prospectus

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Astronomical Observing Techniques

Course
2016-2017

Admission requirements

None.

Description

This course introduces students to the observational tools of modern astronomy. The first part concerns the basics of observational astronomy, the second part concerns the theoretical background of observational techniques, and the third part describes specific 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)

Course objectives

Students will know and be able to apply the most common techniques that are currently used to observe and understand the universe.

Timetable

See BSc schedules.

Mode of instruction

Lectures and seminars.

Assessment method

  • Written exam (100%), see also: Exam schedule

  • Homework assignments (1 bonus grade point if all homework has been submitted on time)

Blackboard

Blackboard will only be used to communicate with students. To have access to Blackboard, you need an ULCN account. More information:

Reading list

Recommended books (not required):

  • Observational Astrophysics, by Pierre Lena, 3rd edition, 2012, published by Springer, ISBN 978-3-642-21814-9

  • Astrophysical Techniques, by C.R.Kitchin, 5th edition 2008, published by Institute of Physics Publishing, ISBN 978-1420082432

Registration

Via uSis.
More information about signing up for your classes at the Faculty of Science can be found here
Exchange and Study Abroad students, please see the Prospective students website for information on how to apply.
For Interest only & Contractual enrollment, please see this website.

Contact information

Docent: Prof.dr. C.U. (Christoph) Keller
Assistant: Emil Por, R. van Holstein, Van Kooten
Course website Astronomical Observing Techniques 2017 (available before the start of the course).

Remarks

None.