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Module Specifications..

Current Academic Year 2024 - 2025

Please note that this information is subject to change.

Module Title
Module Code
School
Module Co-ordinatorSemester 1: David Long
Semester 2: David Long
Autumn: David Long
Module TeachersDavid Long
NFQ level 9 Credit Rating
Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None
Repeat examination
Description

This module focuses on a general understanding of the properties of galaxies and the intergalactic medium, along with the different observational techniques used to study them.

Learning Outcomes

1. Interpret basic astronomical data, extract relevant parameters
2. Assess the most appropriate observational techniques for variety of systems.
3. Explain galactic rotation and discuss the impact of dark-matter on rotation curves.
4. Describe the different building blocks of galaxies
5. Summarise the formation processes of galaxies, and their impact on observables.
6. Understand the role of magnetic fields in different cosmic environments
7. Discuss the nature of the intergalactic medium on different cosmic scales and times



Workload Full-time hours per semester
Type Hours Description
Lecture24No Description
Workshop12Practical application of analysing observational data
Independent Study89No Description
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

Galaxies
Structure of galaxies, galactic rotation curves, dark matter, formation of galaxies, active galactic nuclei

Observational techniques
Telescopes, photometry, spectroscopy, interferometry, signal-to-noise, data reduction, comparing data to models

The intergalactic medium
The intracluster medium, filaments of the large scale structure, the “missing baryon” problem.

Cosmic magnetic fields
Magnetic fields in galaxies and the intergalactic medium, origin and evolution of magnetic fields.

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment% Examination Weight%
Course Work Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
AssignmentBi-weekly assignments covering the topics discussed25%n/a
Reassessment Requirement Type
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
1 = A resit is available for all components of the module
2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module
3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
This module is category
Indicative Reading List

  • P. Schneider: 0, Extragalactic Astronomy & Cosmology,
  • M. Longair: 0, Galaxy Formation,
  • Mo, van den Bosch & White: 0, Galaxy Formation and Evolution,
  • Klein & Fletcher: 0, Galactic and Intergalactic Magnetic Fields,
  • Thompson, Moran & Swenson: 0, Interferometry and Synthesis in Radio Astronomy,
  • Binney & Tremaine: 0, Galactic Dynamics,
Other Resources

None
Programme or List of Programmes
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