Module: The Universe

Module Specifications.

Current Academic Year 2024 - 2025

All Module information is indicative, and this portal is an interim interface pending the full upgrade of Coursebuilder and subsequent integration to the new DCU Student Information System (DCU Key).

As such, this is a point in time view of data which will be refreshed periodically. Some fields/data may not yet be available pending the completion of the full Coursebuilder upgrade and integration project. We will post status updates as they become available. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Date posted: September 2024

Module Title	The Universe
Module Code	PS108 (ITS) / ASP1002 (Banner)
Faculty	Science & Health	School	Physical Sciences
Module Co-ordinator	-
Module Teachers	-
NFQ level	6	Credit Rating	5
Pre-requisite	Not Available
Co-requisite	Not Available
Compatibles	Not Available
Incompatibles	Not Available

Repeat examination
Array

Description

A general introduction to astronomy & astrophysics assuming no prior knowledge. Including the solar system, stars, galaxies and an introduction to cosmology.

Learning Outcomes

1. Describe the structure and dynamics of the solar system.
2. Calculate the resolving power and capabilities of astronomical instruments at various wavelengths.
3. Explain the power source of stars and the evolution of different types of stars.
4. Describe the properties of galaxies and their distribution in the universe
5. Describe the history of the Universe, the Big Bang theory and its implications for the future evolution of the Universe.

*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Workload	Full-time hours per semester
Lecture	25	Lecture
Tutorial	6	Tutorial (problem session)
Assignment Completion	3	In class tests (3)
Independent Study	91	Independent learning
Total Workload: 125

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Solar System
Structure and dynamics of the solar system. Kepler's laws and gravitation.

Astronomical Instrumentation
Optical telescopes, resolution and magnitude limits. Radio telescopes and their properties. Observations at other wavelengths.

Stars
Spectrum, luminosity and surface temperature of stars. Nuclear fusion and the life cycle of stars. Hertzsprung-Russell diagram.

Galaxies
Structure and evolution of galaxies. Measuring distances and the expansion of the Universe. Big Bang theory and the cosmic microwave background.

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment	0%	Examination Weight	0%

Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Course Work Breakdown
In Class Test	Best 2 of 3 tests	20%	n/a

Reassessment Requirement Type
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories: Resit category 1: A resit is available for both* components of the module. Resit category 2: No resit is available for a 100% continuous assessment module. Resit category 3: No resit is available for the continuous assessment component where there is a continuous assessment and examination element.
* ‘Both’ is used in the context of the module having a Continuous Assessment/Examination split; where the module is 100% continuous assessment, there will also be a resit of the assessment
This module is category -

Indicative Reading List

Ian Morison: 2008, Introduction to Astronomy & Cosmology, Wiley, UK, 978-0-470-03334-0
H D Young & R A Freedman: 2019, University Physics, 15, Pearson, 0135159555
S F Green & M H Jones: 2007, Sun and Stars, Cambridge/OU,
M H Jones & R J A Lambourne: 2007, Galaxies 7 Cosmology, Cambridge/OU,

Other Resources

35355, LOOP website, E Cunningham, 2018, PS108 lecture notes, Ireland, 35474, Website, NASA, 0, NASA website, https://www.nasa.gov/, 35475, Website, ESA, 0, ESA website, https://www.esa.int/ESA,