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Objectives

In this course we will review the fundamental concepts, methods, and technology of modern astrophysics, and use these to understand new discoveries at the forefront of astrophysical research. Since physics enables the technology used for astronomical observations, and since it is the underpinning science for interpretation and modeling of the universe, students with a background in physics have the preparation for work in astronomy and astrophysics. However, astrophysics is different from physics in that it is an observational, rather than experimental, science. Astronomers cannot, for example, adjust the mass of a star to see the effect that has on the star's luminosity. Instead, they must observe selected stars and deduce this effect from their measurements and models that depend on basic physics. The language and methods of astronomy may seem arcane and specialized to the physicist, and this course is intended to be a gateway from physics to astronomy and astrophysics. Its goals are both to provide an overview of current work, and to develop the skills needed to understand it and to pursue independent research.



John Kielkopf
2005-09-11