Stars and Planetary Systems module (PH41008)

There are more stars in the universe than grains of sand on Earth. Even more exciting is that astronomers are constantly discovering new planets. Over 5,000 stars are already known to host them.

In this module, you will deepen the knowledge you gained in PH12003 Space Physics and Astronomy. You will advance your understanding of classical models and the most recent observations.

Observations are the only experimental information we can gather about stars and planets. In this module, you will explore how radiation interacts with matter. This understanding is crucial for observational astrophysics and helps explain 'how we know what we know about stars'.

What you will learn

In this module, you will:

• learn about the atmosphere of stars
• study nuclear processes in stellar interiors
• learn about stellar evolution and lifecycles
• learn how to use photometry and spectroscopy to determine the properties of stars
• discover the role of stellar evolution in forming heavy elements
• study the properties of protoplanetary discs
• discover how planetary systems form and evolve
• study the formation of Earth-like rocky planets and Jupiter-like gaseous planets

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• apply fundamental physics to understand astrophysical objects
• describe the structure and evolution of stars
• describe the current understanding of planetary systems formation
• understand the dynamical evolution of planetary systems

Assignments / assessment

• coursework (20%)
• final exam (80%)

Teaching methods / timetable

You will learn through seminars and interactive problem-solving workshops.