Stockholm university
Gå till denna sida på svenska webben

High Energy Astrophysics

Throughout this course you will get an overview over a number of high-energy processes and phenomena in the Universe.

If our eyes could see gravitational waves....
If our eyes could see gravitational waves.... Image credit: NASA/C. Henze

In this course we will discuss a variety of “high-energy” phenomena that range from processes in compact binary systems over accretion onto black holes to the sources and detection of gravitational waves. Each time we begin by introducing (in some cases refreshing) the basic theoretical concepts, building a theoretical model and then confront the theoretical expectations with observations. The theoretical concepts contain elements from basic physics courses (e.g. classical mechanics or electrodynamics), gas dynamics and radiative processes. Knowledge in General Relativity is of course welcome, but not strictly needed for this course. The gravitational wave sources will be described by means of classical mechanics enhanced by additional effects. This course will allow you to apply fundamental physics concepts to understand some of the most violent events in the Universe.

 

  • Course structure

    The course is given during day time, and is part of the Master’s programme in Astronomy. The course is normally given in English.

    Teacher

    Evan O'Connor and Stephan Rosswog.

    Correspondence via the course page in Athena.

    Teaching format

    Instructions are given in the form of lectures (some on site, others via Zoom) and exercises. Participation in both lectures and exercises is mandatory.

     

    Assessment

    Assessment will be carried out during the course through exercises and a final, written exam. All exams and exercises are given in English.

     

    Examiner

    Evan O'Connor

     

  • Schedule

    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.

  • Course literature

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

    Introduction to High-Energy Astrophysics av Rosswog and Brüggen, Cambridge University Press (2007).

    Additional sources may be used for specific topics.

  • Course reports

  • Contact

    The academic advisor and student office can be contacted via studieinfo@astro.su.se.

     

Selected reading

Three students outdoors in front of a computer.

Step-by-step guide

Here we explain all the different steps you need to go through when applying to a course or programme. Please read the instructions carefully.

Two happy students looking at a mobile phone.

Meet us online and around the world

Stockholm University arranges regular webinars and participates in educational fairs and events virtually and around the world to meet students and inform them about our study programmes. Meet us and ask what it's like to study with us!

Students of Stockholm University

Every year Stockholm University welcomes thousands of international students from all over the world. Each bringing their own backpack full of experiences, expectations and dreams. Each with their own story.

Photo montage of close-ups of researchers.

Our researchers. Your teachers

As a student at Stockholm University, you will have direct contact with leading researchers in your field and access to the most recent scientific findings. Our researchers. Your teachers. Meet a few of them here.

Mikaela Sörman

Hear from our alumni

Are you wondering what former students thought about your programme? Are you curious about what your education can lead to after graduation? Hear from our alumni!

Show more