Introduction to Observational Astrophysics 1100-3A09
Program:
1. Introduction
Sources of the information on the Universe. Spectrum of the electromagnetic radiation. Structure of the Earth's atmosphere. Transparency of the Earth's atmosphere.
2. Telescopes
Geometrical optics: Fermat's principle, equation of the lens and mirror, monochromatic and chromatic aberrations. Refractors and reflectors: lens, mirror and mixed systems, modern telescopes. Adaptative and active optics. Telescope mounts, the most interesting solutions. Properties of telescopes: magnification, focal ratio, angular resolution, optical losses. Localization of professional telescopes: astronomical climate, seeing, technical solutions in modern observatories. Telescopes and light collectors in other wavelength bands.
3. Detectors.
Units used in astronomy, basic properties of the human eye, photographic plate, photomultiplier. CCD detectors and reductions of data collected with these devices. Detectors used in infrared, X and gamma wavelength regions. Detectors of cosmic rays, neutrinos and gravitational waves.
4. Photometry
Photometric measurements: aperture photometry. profile photometry, image subtraction. Filters: glass, interferometric. UBV photometric system: definition, absorption in Earth's atmosphere, methods of data reductions. Other important photometric systems: Stroemgren, Johnson, Kron-Cousins, SSDS. Astronomical applications of the UBV system: interstellar absorption, stellar parameters, HR (CMD) diagram, two-color diagram. Comparison of properties of the Stroemgren system with the UBV system.
5. Catalogs:
Classical: positional, photometric, special, variable stars.
Modern: applications, distribution, access.
6. Spectroscopy:
Spectrographs: prism, objective prism, diffraction gratings. Properties of dispersion elements. Design of spectrographs, auxiliary instruments. Spectral classification of stars: Harvard and M-K classification, Greensten's classification of white dwarfs. Spectral features in spectra of different stars. Measurements of radial velocities. Line profiles and their interpretation.
Main fields of studies for MISMaP
Course coordinators
Prerequisites (description)
Learning outcomes
Knowledge
K_W05 – advanced knowledge of observational techniques necessary for planning and conducting astronomical observations
K_W06 – advanced knowledge of the principles of operation of research instrumentation as well as methodological and measurement limitations
K_W07 – advanced knowledge of the basics of electronics and its applications in observational astronomy
Skills
K_U02 – ability to plan, conduct, and interpret astronomical observations
K_U03 – ability to critically analyse observational and computational results and assess their accuracy
Social Competences
K_K01 – readiness for lifelong learning
K_K02 – readiness to cooperate and work in groups
K_K03 – readiness to identify priorities necessary for task completion
Assessment criteria
Assessment form: classes, test and oral exam
Bibliography
1. M. Kubiak, "Gwiazdy i materia międzygwiazdowa"
2. C.R. Kitchin "Astrophysical Techniques"