Intro Astrophysics (F3237)
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Introduction to Astrophysics
Module F3237
Module details for 2025/26.
15 credits
FHEQ Level 4
Module Outline
This module aims to explain the contents, dimensions and history of the Universe, primarily at a descriptive level. It applies basic physical laws to the study of the Universe, enabling simple calculations. This module covers:
• Light: its properties, generation, propagation, detection, and quantification.
• Astronomical quantities: magnitudes, colours, and celestial coordinate systems.
• Exploring the Universe: the history of telescopes and detectors, modern observatories (including cosmic ray, neutrinos, and gravitational wave observatories), space probes.
• Gravity: historical models of the Solar System, orbits, astrodynamics, and tidal forces.
• The Solar System: the Sun, the inner planets, and the outer planets and the minor bodies.
• Exoplanets: their detection and characterisation.
• Stars: their classification, formation, and evolution, stellar populations, and binary star systems.
• Galaxies: types, distance, formation and structure.
• Cosmology: dynamics of the Universe, the Big Bang and the cosmic microwave background.
Module learning outcomes
Demonstrate a broad but qualitative knowledge of the contents of the Universe
An understanding of some of the physical processes at work in the Universe
Demonstrate an ability to apply basic theories and concepts to these processes, and make mathematical calculations based on them
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Unseen Examination | Semester 1 Assessment | 80.00% |
| Coursework | 20.00% | |
| Coursework components. Weighted as shown below. | ||
| Portfolio | T1 Week 11 | 100.00% |
Timing
Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.
Weighting
Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.
| Term | Method | Duration | Week pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Autumn Semester | Workshop | 1 hour | 11111111111 |
| Autumn Semester | Lecture | 1 hour | 22222222222 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
Dr Darren Baskill
Assess convenor, Convenor
/profiles/235209
Dr Lily Asquith
Convenor
/profiles/355525
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The University reserves the right to make changes to the contents or methods of delivery of, or to discontinue, merge or combine modules, if such action is reasonably considered necessary by the University. If there are not sufficient student numbers to make a module viable, the University reserves the right to cancel such a module. If the University withdraws or discontinues a module, it will use its reasonable endeavours to provide a suitable alternative module.