Course
Astronomy and Astro Physics (FYS220)
The course gives an introduction to Astronomy and Astrophysics.
Dette er emnebeskrivelsen for studieåret 2025-2026. Merk at det kan komme endringer.
Fakta
Emnekode
FYS220
Vekting (stp)
10
Semester undervisningsstart
Autumn
Undervisningsspråk
English, Norwegian
Antall semestre
1
Vurderingssemester
Autumn
Content
We first describe the Sky seen from Earth and the history of Astronomy. The necessary physics background is briefly introduced (gravity, Kepler motion, light, atomic spectra, thermodynamics and concepts from statistical physics). Observational methods are introduced.
We then consider the structure, birth, evolution and death of stars. A number of astronomical objects and phenomena are presented, including binary stars, Black Holes, white dwarfs, red giants. A number of methods for determining distances are introduced.
Galaxies, galaxy clusters and the structure of the Universe on cosmological scales is described, and an overview is given of the history of the Universe.
Finally, we focus on the Solar System and its creation, planets, moons, gas, dust and the possibility og Life on other planets.
Note that the exam is given in the language of instruction.
Learning outcome
After completing this course, it is expected that:
K1: The student has good knowledge of the constituents, structure and history of the Universe.
K2: The student has knowledge of astronomical research methods, observations, instruments and analysis.
F1: The student can reflect on and describe central physical processes in the Universe, on the basis of basic physical laws (typically gravitation, electromagnetism and atomic physics). Examples include planetary motion, the thermodynamics of stars, the emission and absorption of light and other radiation.
F2: The student can perform simple calculations concerning astronomical topics.
G1: The student has a general understanding of the place of planet Earth and humankind in the Universe.
G2: The student is able to acquire, structure and present scientific material orally and in writing.
Forkunnskapskrav
Anbefalte forkunnskaper
Exam
| Form of assessment | Weight | Duration | Marks | Aid |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Written exam | 1/1 | 4 Hours | Letter grades | Valid calculator 1) |
1) The calculator must be simple (non-programmable). See which calculators are approved under "Permitted aids during an exam" on our website.
Exam is with pen and paper
Vilkår for å gå opp til eksamen/vurdering
Fagperson(er)
Head of Department:
Bjørn Henrik AuestadCourse coordinator:
Anders TranbergMethod of work
The course has 6 hours of teaching each week. Lectures, student presentations, problem solving sessions.
There will also be opportunities to observe some of the astronomical objects treated in the course. This will take place in the evening and attendance is optional. When these sessions will take place will depend on the weather.
Teaching language: Scandinavian or English.