Galaxies and The Universe module (PH41009)

What are galaxies made of? How do they form, evolve, and move through space? What will happen to the universe in the end? In this module, you will explore some of the biggest questions in astrophysics. You will gain a clearer understanding of the structures that make up our cosmos.

You will start with the Milky Way, our own galaxy, and compare it with others across the universe. You will study how stars, gas, dark matter, and black holes interact to shape galaxies and their movements. You will then zoom out to look at galaxy clusters, cosmic structures, and the expanding universe itself.

The module builds on your earlier knowledge of astrophysics. It introduces the physics of supermassive black holes, active galactic nuclei, and the cosmic web. You will also see how cosmologists use light and data to measure the age, shape, and fate of the universe.

If you're fascinated by space and want to understand how everything fits together at the largest scales, this module is your guide to the universe.

What you will learn

In this module, you will:

• study the structure and dynamics of the Milky Way and other galaxies
• learn how black holes affect galaxy centres and active galactic nuclei
• explore the physics of galaxy groups, clusters, and large-scale structures
• understand how cosmologists model the expansion of the universe
• examine how data and light reveal the shape, age, and future of the cosmos

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

• describe the structure of galaxies and explain their motions
• analyse galaxy clusters using physics and classical mechanics
• explain the physics of expanding space and interpret cosmological data
• solve problems in astrophysics using mathematical models

Assignments / assessment

• Coursework assignments (20%)
• Final written exam, two hours (80%)

Teaching methods / timetable

• Lectures
  • On-campus sessions covering key concepts, including galaxy dynamics and cosmological theory
• Problem-solving workshops
  • Guided sessions applying the physical concepts covered in the lectures