PHYS 1002 - Introduction to Astrophysics and Astronomy

Course Description

This course addresses the origin of modern astronomy, the solar system, seasons, moon & eclipses, motion & gravity, light & telescopes, star light & atoms, stars (binary, formation, evolution and death), neutron stars & black holes, normal galaxies, peculiar galaxies, dark matter, dark energy and cosmology.

 

Teaching Pattern

  • Duration of course: about 13 weeks

  • Lecture hour(s) per week: 3

 

Content

  • Origin of modern astronomy
  • Gravity
  • Light and telescope
  • Star light and atoms
  • Stars (binary, formation, evolution, death)
  • Neutron stars and black holes
  • Normal galaxies
  • Peculiar galaxies
  • Cosmology
  • The solar system
  • Life on other world

 

Remarks

  • Exclusion: PHYS 1006, PHYS 4054
  • Prerequisite: Level 3 or above in HKDSE 1/2x or in HKDSE 1x Physics, or passing grade in *HKCEE
  • Students without the physics prerequisite but have taken PHYS 1001 or equivalent may seek instructor’s approval for enrolling in the course
  • Common Core Course

* HKCEE - Hong Kong Certificate of Education Examination

 

Sample Course Outline