AST4310 – Radiative Processes in Astrophysics

Course content

This course gives an introduction to the interpretation of electromagnetic radiation in astrophysical media, in particular stars. It covers how processes from quantum and atomic physics can create and absorb radiation, and how we can use observations and models to infer the physical properties of astronomical objects. The course has a strong computational component aimed at understanding radiation transport and reproducing common tasks used in astrophysical research to understand the properties of stars.

Learning outcome

After completing this course, you will be able to:

  • explain different processes that generate electromagnetic radiation in astronomical objects, in particular stars.
  • describe how spectral lines form in optically thick and thin media.
  • use existing databases to obtain models of stellar atmospheres and atoms.
  • write efficient numerical methods to obtain predicted spectra from models.
  • infer physical parameters from stellar spectra, such as temperature, velocity, chemical composition, and magnetic field.
  • write concise and clear peer reviews.
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