Galaxies

The course addresses extragalactic astronomy with emphasis on understanding the astrophysical processes underlying how different types of galaxies may have very different properties. The course has a strong connection to research and contains two mandatory seminar sessions where the students discuss recent research literature.
Spiral galaxy NGC 3627 (M66)

Spiral galaxy NGC 3627 (M66). Credit: ESO/P. Barthel

The focus of the course is on properties of different types of galaxies, but mainly on processes that are especially important for how galaxies evolve: star formation, dynamic processes within and between galaxies, and active galactic nuclei. Subjects such as stellar orbits in galaxies, star formation in galaxies, disk and elliptical galaxies and active galactic nuclei will be covered.

After taking the course you are expected to have acquired advanced knowledge on galaxies and the underlying astrophysical processes that govern their formation and evolution. Specifically, you should be able to:

  • describe different types of galaxies, and the astrophysical processes that give rise to the observable properties of them
  • qualitatively describe star formation in galaxies, galaxy dynamics, chemical enrichment in galaxies, and the electromagnetic spectrum of galaxies
  • solve calculation problems relating to star formation in galaxies, galaxy dynamics, chemical enrichment in galaxies, and the electromagnetic spectrum of galaxies
  • show understanding for how galaxies are affected, quantitatively and qualitatively, as they evolve and interact
  • show good insight in, and understanding of, modern extragalactic research, as well as discuss this at seminars.

The course is given during day time, and is part of the Master’s programme in Astronomy. It can also be taken as a free-standing course. The course is given in English.


Teaching Format

The course consistss of interactive lectures and seminars. The seminars are compulsory.


Assessment

To pass the course you need to have attended both seminar sessions. There are multiple choice tests and a written exam.

Examiner

Matthew Hayes

The schedule will be available no later than one month before the start of the course. We do not recommend print-outs as changes can occur. At the start of the course, your department will advise where you can find your schedule during the course.


Note that the course literature can be changed up to two months before the start of the course.

Cimatti, Fraternali, & Nipoti: “Introduction to Galaxy Formation and Evolution”, 2020, Cambridge University Press.

Course reports are displayed for the three most recent course instances.








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