Optical astrophysics laboratory
0800-PA-OPASTLA
Example tasks to be completed during the course:
1. Creating plots using the TOPCAT software based on data from the exoplanet database.
2. Creating an H-R diagram using the Gaia Archive database.
3. Preparing an observational proposal using information obtained from astronomical databases, e.g., Gaia DR3.
4. Determining the spatial density of stars of a selected type using the SIMBAD database.
5. Determining the period-luminosity relationship for Cepheids using the SIMBAD and Gaia DR3 databases.
6. Optical identification of small Solar System bodies using the MPC database in selected fields of view, based on reduced archival optical observations obtained with the 90cm telescope.
Total student workload
Hours completed with the involvement of teachers (50 hours):
- laboratory participation – 45 hours
- consultations with the academic teacher – 5 hours
Time dedicated to individual student work (40 hours):
- preparation for the laboratory – 10 hours
- preparations of reports – 20 hours
- reading literature – 10 hours
Total: 90 hours (3 ECTS)
Learning outcomes - knowledge
W1: Has in-depth knowledge of advanced Mathematics and mathematical methods necessary for solving problems of Physics or Astronomy in the selected areas (K_W01)
W2: Knows the rules of the functioning of measuring systems and research equipment specific for the area of Physics or Astronomy, or knows advanced methods of theoretical, computational and mathematical Physics or Astronomy (K_W03)
W3: Knows the physical processes occurring in stars and galaxies, interstellar and extragalactic medium, has in-depth knowledge of the structure and evolutions of planetary systems, stars, galaxies, and the Universe (K_W04)
Learning outcomes - skills
U1: Can critically analyse measurements, observations or theoretical computations, along with evaluations of the results’ accuracy (K_U03)
U2: Can use and modify available software for numerical modeling of astrophysical objects or physical phenomena (K_U04)
U3: Can present research findings (experimental, theoretical or numerical) in speech or writing (K_U09)
U4: Can efficiently communicate both with specialists and non-specialists in terms of topics relevant to the studied field of Physics or Astronomy (K_U10)
Learning outcomes - social competencies
K1: Knows the limitations of own knowledge and skills (K_K01)
K2: Appreciates the importance of knowledge in solving practical and cognitive problems, understands the need to question experts and authorities (K_K02)
Observation/demonstration teaching methods
- display
Expository teaching methods
- discussion
- problem-based lecture
- description
- informative (conventional) lecture
Exploratory teaching methods
- laboratory
- practical
Online teaching methods
- cooperation-based methods
- exchange and discussion methods
Course coordinators
Term 2022/23Z: | Term 2023/24Z: | Term 2024/25Z: |
Assessment criteria
Laboratory: passed with a grade. The final grade is the arithmetic mean of the partial grades obtained from individual exercises. The exercises are evaluated based on reports documenting the acquisition of the required skills.
All reports must be accepted.
Additional information
Additional information (registration calendar, class conductors,
localization and schedules of classes), might be available in the USOSweb system: