Astrophysics

Explore the potential for life in the universe and the most recent scientific discoveries within this area.

Course Overview

In Astrophysics, students explore our universe and life across the breadth of time and space. Fundamental theories about the universe’s origin and potential endings are investigated, whilst highlighting charismatic astronomical features like black hole structures and quasars. Our solar system is put under the microscope through a detailed tour of the planets, a case study, and a mission simulation for a trip to Mars. We will introduce students to principles and the history of rocketry, and explore the conditions and requirements for life on spacecraft.

Some theoretical physics is brought in with explanations and mysteries related to general and special relativity, as well as extending questions into quantum mechanics and multiverse evidence. Finally, the search for extraterrestrial life covers a breakdown of the history of life on Earth, finding fossils here and in space, and linguistic communication with potential aliens.

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Learning Outcomes

Explore the potential for life in the universe and unlock some of the mysteries of the universe in this exciting Astrophysics course. 

Students will be taken on a journey through the Universe, starting with some of the incredible objects within our very own solar system, to the mysterious phenomenon of black holes, quasars, dark matter and dark energy. We discuss how stars, the solar system and other incredible objects are formed and consider the likelihood of life existing on these objects.

We will discuss the massive distances and times scales which astrophysicists have to take into consideration when attempting to unravel the mysteries of the universe and explore some of the latest findings in this field.

Upon completion, students will have developed a rich understanding of the physics and science underpinning our understanding of the Universe.

 

Throughout this course students will: 

  • Show an understanding of how stars form and make links between a star’s properties and the chance for life to exist around the star;
  • Explore various objects within our solar system, including learning about orbits, satellites, physical composition and various missions that have visited them.
  • Look at how solar systems and galaxies are ‘born’
  • Discuss theories on the shape and death of the Universe.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of an exoplanet and various techniques used to ‘see’ into deep space

Assessment

Students will be assessed through a wide variety of tasks that relate to different areas of the course.

Assessed tasks will include:

A holiday destination advertisement video (2mins) for an exoplanet of their choice (can be completed individually or in pairs)
Portfolio work (short activities, mini-quizzes and explorations relating to class work)

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