PH1002 - Astronomy: Evolution of the Universe

This subject provides a fundamental overview of astronomy as both a body of scientific knowledge and a set of skills used to investigate the universe. This year's selection of topics include: the tools of astronomy; properties and origins of the solar system; our sun and other stars - their structure, characteristics and life cycles; astrobiology and the scientific search for life; the structure and evolution of galaxies; Cosmology - big bang, cosmic background radiation, dark matter and dark energy. This subject is a broad-based view of astronomy stressing an interdisciplinary approach to science. No previous knowledge of physics is required, but it does require the use of scientific thinking, both qualitative and quantitative, to successfully complete it.

Learning Outcomes

• appreciate the scale and complexity of the Universe and Earth's place in it;
• describe the general properties of planets, solar systems, stars, and galaxies;
• exhibit by recalling the basic concepts, terminology and principles of contemporary astronomy;
• outline the main features and performance of telescopes and other astronomical tools and skills;
• develop an inquiring mind about the nature of the universe and to appreciate the scientific endeavour to explain its structure.

Subject Assessment

• end of semester exam (55%)
• quizzes or tests (30%)
• tutorials/practicals (15%).

Note: Minor variations might occur due to the continuous Subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.