Astronomy 510: Stellar Populations

The stellar populations of our galaxy and galaxies of the Local Group. Topics include the properties of stars and star clusters, stellar evolution, and the structure and evolution of our galaxy. Taught in alternate years. Prerequisites: MATH 120, PHYS 201, and one Astronomy course numbered above 200.

Astronomy 518: Stellar Dynamics

Astronomy 520: Computational Methods for Astrophysics and Geophysics

The analytic and numerical/computational tools necessary for effective research in astronomy, geophysics, and related disciplines. Topics include numerical solutions to differential equations, spectral methods, and Monte Carlo simulations. Applications are made to common astrophysical and geophysical problems including fluids and N-body simulations. Prerequisites: ASTR 320b, MATH 120a or b, 222a or b or 225a or b, and 246a or b.

Astronomy 520a/G&G 538a: Computational Methods for Astrophysics and Geophysics

The analytic, numerical, and computational tools necessary for effective research in astrophysics and related disciplines. Topics include the numerical solution of differential equations, spectral methods, and Monte Carlo simulations. Applications to common astrophysical problems including fluid dynamics and N-body simulations. Prerequisites: ASTR 320, MATH 120, 222 or 225, and 246.

Astronomy 530: Galaxies

A survey of the contents, structure, kinematics, dynamics, and evolution of galaxies; galaxy interactions and the environments of galaxies; properties of active galactic nuclei. Prerequisites: MATH 120, PHYS 201, and one Astronomy course numbered above 200.

Astronomy 540: Radiative Processes in Astrophysics and Geophysics

Astronomy 550: Stellar Astrophysics

The physics of stellar atmospheres and interiors. Topics include the basic equations of stellar structure, nuclear processes, stellar evolution, white dwarfs, and neutron stars. Taught in alternate years. Prerequisites: MATH 120 and PHYS 201 or equivalents.

Astronomy 555: Observational Techniques

The design and use of optical telescopes, cameras, spectrographs, and detectors to make astronomical observations. The reduction and analysis of photometric and spectroscopic observations.

Astronomy 560: Interstellar Matter and Star Formation

Observations of interstellar matter at optical, infrared, radio, and X-ray wavelengths; dynamics and evolution of the interstellar medium including interactions between stars and interstellar matter; molecular clouds and processes of star formation. Taught in alternate years. Prerequisites: MATH 120 and PHYS 201 or equivalents.

Astronomy 565: The Early Universe

Astronomy 570: High Energy Astrophysics

A survey of current topics in high-energy astrophysics, including accreting black hole and neutron star systems in our galaxy, pulsars, active galactic nuclei and relativistic jets, gamma-ray bursts, and ultra-high-energy cosmic rays. The basic physical processes underlying the observed high-energy phenomena are also covered.

Astronomy 580: Research

Astronomy 585: Introduction to Radio Astronomy

Introduction to the theory and techniques of radio astronomy, including radio emission mechanisms, propagation effects, antenna theory, interferometry, and spectroscopy. Discussion of specific topics such as Jupiter, radio stars, molecular clouds, radio galaxies, ETI, and the microwave background. Includes observational exercises with a small radio telescope. Prerequisites: MATH 120 and PHYS 201 or equivalents

Astronomy 590: Solar Physics

Astronomy 600: Cosmology

A comprehensive introduction to cosmology at the graduate level. The standard paradigm for the formation, growth, and evolution of structure in the Universe is covered in detail. The course does not assume prior knowledge of general relativity.

Astronomy 666: Statistical Thermodynamics for Astrophysics and Geophysics

Classical thermodynamics is derived from statistical thermodynamics. We then develop kinetics, transport theory, and reciprocity from the linear thermodynamics of irreversible processes. Emphasis is placed on phase transitions, including novel states of matter, nucleation theory, and the thermodynamics of atmospheres. We explore phenomena that are of direct relevance to problems in astrophysical settings, atmospheres, oceans, and the Earth's interior. No quantum mechanics is necessary as a prerequisite.

Astronomy 705: Research Seminar in Stellar Populations

Astronomy 710: Professional Seminar

A weekly seminar covering science and professional issues Astronomy.

Astronomy 715: Research Seminar in High Energy Astrophysics

Astronomy 720: Research Seminar in Solar Physics