Study information

IT and Astrophysics Skills - 2023 entry

MODULE TITLEIT and Astrophysics Skills CREDIT VALUE15
MODULE CODEPHY1029 MODULE CONVENERProf Feodor Ogrin (Coordinator), Dr Chris Brunt (Coordinator)
DURATION: TERM 1 2 3
DURATION: WEEKS 11 6
Number of Students Taking Module (anticipated) 26
DESCRIPTION - summary of the module content
This module is practically based with comprehensive work sheets for each session and demonstrators available to answer any queries that may arise. Students are encouraged to work at their own speed depending on their previous experience. Students with no prior experience will need to spend more time than their more experienced counterparts outside the class sessions to complete the assignments contained in the work sheets.
 
In the first half of the module students learn to use Python for scientific applications. Python is an interpreted, high-level, general-purpose programming language that can be used for a range of academic and research based activities including high level mathematics and data processing work. Python is widely used in commercial and research environments. This is followed by a two week introduction to LaTeX for typesetting high-quality reports.
 
The second half introduces students to computer-aided manipulation and analysis of modern astrophysical data. They will gain an understanding of the basic properties of digital imaging and spectroscopy data and how such data are limited by various noise components added in the signal chain between the astrophysical source and the detection of photons or waves from it. The students will gain an appreciation of the computer tools and algorithms used to analyse astrophysical data through a series of short projects based on actual data, with the goal of producing meaningful scientific results and understanding the uncertainties associated with them. The module also illustrates the interesting differences of approach needed by 'observational physics' as opposed to 'experimental physics'.
AIMS - intentions of the module

Every physicist must be able to analyse data, evaluate theoretical models, and present their work in the form of a technical report. They must also be able to perform investigations, such as experiments, and solve the problems they encounter in a systematic and logical manner.

INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES (ILOs) (see assessment section below for how ILOs will be assessed)
A student who has passed this module should be able to:
 
Module Specific Skills and Knowledge:
1. use a computer language (e.g. Python) to manipulate data and solve equations using numerical methods;
2. describe the essential components and noise sources in the chain starting from an astrophysical source and ending with digital data stored in a computer;
3. perform basic manipulations and measurements of digital astrophysical data;
4. perform simple analyses of the measurements to derive astrophysical results;
5. present the manipulation, analysis, and results in a clear, logical fashion, in written form;
 
Discipline Specific Skills and Knowledge:
6. use LaTeX and a stylesheet to produce high-quality typeset reports containing mathematical equations, tables, graphs and diagrams;
7. identify the properties and limitations of observational data;
8. present results of data analysis in an appropriate fashion;
9. keep contemporaneous notes in a professional notebook;
 
Personal and Key Transferable / Employment Skills and Knowledge:
10. use a computer to solve problems and produce documents;
11. solve problems logically;
12. use the WWW and software tools to support learning.
 
SYLLABUS PLAN - summary of the structure and academic content of the module
Part A: IT Skills
 
I. Introduction
  1. Use of the Exeter Learning Environment.
  2. The networked environment.
  3. Introduction to online collaboration and communication tools, e.g. Microsoft Teams and Zoom.
II. Python
  1. Introduction to Jupiter Notebooks: Getting started with Python, basic operations and data structures.
  2. Fundamentals: Using the SciPy module, commands and functions, matrix operations.
  3. Working with graphics: Basic plotting, styles and plotting structure, working with axes and outputting.
  4. Writing Python functions: Basic syntax, scripts and functions, internal/external arguments and global variables, input and output.
  5. Numerical integration: Principles and different methods used, use of generic integration functions.
  6. Curve Fitting: The least-squares criterion, fitting with polynomial functions, using self-defined fitting routines.
  7. Programming: Basic programming: using 'for' and 'while' loops, conditional statements 'if', 3-D graphics.
III. LaTex
  1. Using LaTeX to create a simple document
    • Typeset documents with equations, tables, and other LaTeX attributes
    • Working with LaTeX templates
  2. Using software tools to create graphics and diagrams for use in technical reports.
 
Part B: Astrophysics
 
I. Indicative List of Projects
  1. Hertzsprung-Russell Diagram
  2. Differential rotation in the Sun
  3. Measuring velocities in a young protostellar jet
  4. Spectral classification
  5. The Hubble Law
  6. Measuring the mass of the Coma cluster of galaxies
LEARNING AND TEACHING
LEARNING ACTIVITIES AND TEACHING METHODS (given in hours of study time)
Scheduled Learning & Teaching Activities 58 Guided Independent Study 92 Placement / Study Abroad
DETAILS OF LEARNING ACTIVITIES AND TEACHING METHODS
Category Hours of study time Description
Scheduled learning & teaching activities 22 hours 11×2-hour computer laboratory sessions (IT)
Scheduled learning & teaching activities 36 hours 12×3-hour computer laboratory sessions (astrophysics)
Guided independent study 24 hours 8×3-hour IT Skills homework
Guided independent study 68 hours Reading, private study and revision

 

ASSESSMENT
FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT - for feedback and development purposes; does not count towards module grade
SUMMATIVE ASSESSMENT (% of credit)
Coursework 70 Written Exams 0 Practical Exams 30
DETAILS OF SUMMATIVE ASSESSMENT
Form of Assessment % of Credit Size of Assessment (e.g. duration/length) ILOs Assessed Feedback Method
Mid-Term IT Skills Test 1 15% 90 mins (Term 1, Week 9) 1, 5, 16, 17 Written and verbal
Mid-Term IT Skills Test 2 15% 90 mins (Term 1, Week 12) 1, 5, 16, 17 Written and verbal
8 × IT Skills assignments 20% 2 hours in class + 3 hours homework each (Weekly, Term 1, Weeks 2-5, 7, 8, 10 & 12) 1, 6, 10, 11 Written and verbal
Astrophysics Reports 50% 6×500-word reports and notebooks (Weekly, Term 2, Weeks 7-11) 2-5, 7-9, 11, 12 Written and verbal
         

 

DETAILS OF RE-ASSESSMENT (where required by referral or deferral)
Re-assessment is not available except when required by referral or deferral.
 
RE-ASSESSMENT NOTES
Re-assessment is not available for this module.
 
RESOURCES
INDICATIVE LEARNING RESOURCES - The following list is offered as an indication of the type & level of
information that you are expected to consult. Further guidance will be provided by the Module Convener
ELE:
 

Reading list for this module:

Type Author Title Edition Publisher Year ISBN
Extended Smith, R.C. Observational Astrophysics CUP 1995 0-521-27834-1
CREDIT VALUE 15 ECTS VALUE 7.5
PRE-REQUISITE MODULES PHY1022
CO-REQUISITE MODULES
NQF LEVEL (FHEQ) 4 AVAILABLE AS DISTANCE LEARNING No
ORIGIN DATE Thursday 15th December 2011 LAST REVISION DATE Thursday 26th January 2023
KEY WORDS SEARCH Physics; Astrophysics; LaTeX; Python; Software.

Please note that all modules are subject to change, please get in touch if you have any questions about this module.