Astronomy: Dynamical Astronomy

The course describes how we can use the positions and motions (kinematics) of stars to uncover properties of the Galaxy such as the density of matter near the Sun, and how the motions of stars have changed with time. We focus on the Milky Way Galaxy, but the Newtonian dynamics we use also has application to other galaxies, stellar clusters, galaxy clusters, and other astrophysical collections of objects.

You will learn how to calculate positions, velocities and other properties of stars from cutting-edge observational data, and how these relate to the physical structure and evolution of the Galaxy. You will learn about how we measure the Galactic rotation, what we can find out from the statistical motions of stars, and derive relations between these motions and properties of the Galaxy.

The course includes a project work, in which you will need to think carefully about the types of stars you select from the extensive Gaia catalogue. You will also conduct numerical orbital integration of the Sun and other stars in the Galaxy.

The course begins with a summary of basic observational astronomy (magnitudes, proper motions, the Hertzsprung–Russell diagram) for those who have limited background knowledge.

Teaching is based on lectures and computing projects, with dedicated lab sessions with the assistance of the course teachers. The lectures cover the theoretical background needed to complete the project work.

You will write computer programs to analyse the latest data from the Gaia spacecraft, learn about the properties of our Galaxy, and run simulations of stellar motions. The projects can be discussed in groups but are presented individually in written reports. Participation in all project work is compulsory.

Assessment is based on your performance in the projects and a final take-home exam, with the project work having the greater weight.

Prerequisites

To be admitted to the course, students must have 75 credits in Physics and 45 credits in Mathematics, or a Bachelor of Science in Physics, in both cases including knowledge corresponding to FYSB24 Atomic and Molecular Physics, 7.5 credits, FYSC22 Nuclear Physics, 7.5 credits, and English 6/B.

Tuition fees for non-EU/EEA citizens

Citizens of countries outside:

• The European Union (EU)
• The European Economic Area (EEA) and
• Switzerland

are required to pay tuition fees. You pay an instalment of the tuition fee in advance of each
semester.

Tuition fees, payments and exemptions

Full programme/course tuition fee: SEK 21,250
First payment: SEK 21,250

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Note that you may also need to pay an application fee, or provide proof of exemption.

Application fee

No tuition fees for citizens of the EU, EEA and Switzerland

There are no tuition fees for citizens of the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland.