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Module Specifications.

Current Academic Year 2024 - 2025

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Date posted: September 2024

Module Title Astronomical Techniques
Module Code PS310 (ITS) / ASP1004 (Banner)
Faculty Science & Health School Physical Sciences
Module Co-ordinatorRobert Brose
Module TeachersMaria Chernyakova, Samuel McKeague
NFQ level 8 Credit Rating 7.5
Pre-requisite Not Available
Co-requisite Not Available
Compatibles Not Available
Incompatibles Not Available
None
Failure in the laboratory part requires reattendance.
Description

Module Aims: To allow students to learn the theory of multi-wavelength observations (from radio up to TeV) and to improve their skills in X-ray data analysis. To develop advanced measurement skills and good laboratory practice by doing laboratories relevant to common astrophysical problems.

Learning Outcomes

1. Discuss the physical principles of observations with various telescopes. Solve related problems.
2. Reduce and analyse astronomical data using a professional astronomical data reduction package. Perform the main stages of the data analysis including detailed imaging, temporal and spectral analysis of the data and interpretation of the obtained results.
3. Carry out in the lab experimental measurements using various measurements devices and applying the suitable error analysis.
4. Identify the physical principles involved in the laboratory experiments and discuss them in the context of astrophysical situations.
5. Apply safe laboratory practise.
6. Write a report on a scientific experiment.



Workload Full-time hours per semester
Type Hours Description
Lecture24No Description
Laboratory808 hours/week
Independent Study86report writing, preparing for written exam
Total Workload: 190

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

Indicative Syllabus
Introduction to LINUX computing system and brief introduction to computing standards in astronomy. Introduction to various instrumentation aspects, e.g. CCD detectors, signal and noise, statistics. Point like and extended sources. Reduction techniques for X-ray data. Data filtering, imaging, spectral and timing analysis.

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment100% Examination Weight0%
Course Work Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
Report(s)written report27%As required
PresentationOral presentation3%n/a
Report(s)written report20%n/a
PresentationOral presentation10%n/a
Written ExamAssessment of lecture material40%Week 12
Indicative Reading List

  • Bradt, Hale: 0, Astronomy methods, Cambridge, 052136440X
Other Resources

None

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