What you will study
The module introduces the fundamental concepts of modern cosmology and selected topics in extragalactic astrophysics. You’ll develop skills in applying the ideas of cosmology and the astrophysics of the distant Universe through problem-solving and using and interpreting observational evidence. You’ll explore how this evidence supports current theories about the Universe and its evolution and gain an understanding of current open questions and the limitations of our knowledge.
The module comprises printed books, supporting practical activities and online content.
Cosmology provides a thorough introduction to modern cosmology, beginning with an overview of current understanding to provide context for the more specialised topics that follow. You’ll then explore the basic concepts and mathematical language of special and general relativity, learning how these underpin our ability to describe the geometry of the Universe. The module introduces the metric describing the geometry of the Universe and the Friedmann equations that describe its expansion. You’ll learn how a small set of cosmological parameters define spacetime’s past and future evolution, then explore the key observational evidence supporting the current model and how observations measure these fundamental parameters. In later parts, you’ll follow a history of the Universe from the earliest particle interactions to the formation of structure via gravitational collapse and, eventually, the birth of stars and galaxies.
Three Python-based practical activities support this part of the module, providing hands-on experience working with cosmological models and observations.
The Distant Universe provides a series of in-depth study topics in extragalactic astrophysics, linked to each other and Cosmology by themes of relativity and the interaction of matter and radiation. You’ll examine how we find and study the first galaxies and learn about their impact on their surroundings. You’ll then consider in more depth how to use the technique of gravitational lensing – the bending of light by massive objects – to learn about distant galaxies and more nearby objects. You’ll also learn about the dynamic processes in the Universe’s most massive structures, galaxy clusters. Finally, the module introduces the topic of high-energy astrophysics; you’ll learn about observations and models of extreme phenomena, including jets from supermassive black holes and gamma-ray bursts.
Two further Python-based practical activities support Book 2 The Distant Universe.
You will learn
You’ll build on your mathematical, physics and astronomy knowledge to further develop your understanding of fundamental concepts in physics and astronomy in the specific context of cosmology and astrophysical phenomena associated with the distant Universe.
Vocational relevance
You’ll develop skills in quantitative and computational problem-solving and organising and assessing evidence to support arguments and ideas in astrophysics and cosmology. Coding is an important practical and professional skill; you’ll develop this through activities involving exploring real astrophysical data and models applying cosmology and astrophysics concepts.