Introduction to Astronomy and Astrophysics

COURSE CONTENT

• Historical elements of astronomy. The Greek tradition. The Copernican revolution.

• Introductory concepts: Basic concepts related to (i) mechanics (gravity, Newton’s laws, Kepler’s laws), (ii) the physics of light, and (iii) blackbody radiation.
  Radiation, flux, brightness, luminosity, magnitudes, distance scale in the Universe.

• Introduction to telescopes and measuring instruments.

• Stellar physics: Stellar photometry – stellar magnitudes – color indices. Formation and intensity of spectral lines – spectral classification – HR diagram. The Sun: a case study.

• Binary star systems and stellar parameters. Search for exoplanets.

• Solar System: General characteristics of processes. Interior of planets. Atmospheres. Satellites. Minor bodies of our Solar System. Formation of the Solar System.

• Cosmology: Our Galaxy. Galaxies. (Brief introduction: active galaxies, quasars, cosmological theories—origin and evolution of the Universe).

Intended Learning Outcomes

At the end of this course, the student will be able to:

• Apply knowledge of Physics to understand the laws describing the structure and motion of celestial bodies (stars, planets, etc.)

• Calculate basic parameters (temperature, size, radius, mass)

• Apply the principles governing the operation of telescopes and extract information from them

• Understand basic concepts of cosmology and use methods for determining distances and masses on a cosmic scale

Prerequisites

There are no prerequisite courses. Students should have at least basic knowledge of General Physics, Classical Physics, Modern Physics, and Mathematics.

Teaching and Learning Methods

Lectures with PowerPoint presentations, problem solving on the board, simulations during lectures, problem solving by students during lectures, tutorial sessions with guided problem solving.

Assessment Methods

Written examination (100% of the final grade)

Language of Instruction and Assessment

Greek