Major Project: Computational Astrophysics
Duration
- One Semester or equivalent
Contact hours
- 150 contact hours - Online
On-campus unit delivery combines face-to-face and digital learning. For Online unit delivery, learning is conducted exclusively online.
2022 teaching periods
Hawthorn HOL Study Period 3 |
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Dates: Results: Last self enrolment: Census: Last withdraw without fail: |
Prerequisites
Aims and objectives
This Unit aims to develop the student's understanding of specific astrophysical concepts with the aid of computer simulations, and to gain practical experience in the use of numerical modelling and data analysis. The student will produce a comprehensive record of their investigations, and communicate effectively about the outcomes of their work.
Unit Learning Outcomes (ULO)
Students who successfully complete this unit will be able to:
2. Appraise the suitability of existing simulator code to address a chosen research problem, identifying limitations and trade-offs inherent in the numerical implementation
3. Develop and identify a scientific justification which includes a research plan, the project aims, objectives and expected outcomes
4. Synthesise a research approach and execute this independently
5. Design and create a comprehensive record of research methodologies and references/resources utilised
6. Demonstrate the ability to communicate the results of a scientific investigation, including the techniques used and key conclusions, in a written and visual format suited to modern scientific journals
Unit information in detail
- Teaching methods, assessment and content.
Teaching methods
Type | Hours per week | Number of Weeks | Total |
Online Contact Directed Online Learning and Independent Learning | 12.5 | 12 | 150 |
TOTAL | 150 hours |
Assessment
Types | Individual or Group task | Weighting | Assesses attainment of these ULOs |
Project | Individual | 50-60% | 1,2,4,5,6 |
Poster | Individual | 10-30% | 2 |
Scientific Justification Rep | Individual | 10-30% | 1,3 |
Content
Students will choose from a range of computational astrophysics modules which will teach specific astrophysical concepts with the aid of computer simulations. The modules will provide a grounding in computer modelling and an appreciation of the ability of science and computers to make complex phenomena understandable. Students will choose a pre-existing module around which their Major Project will be based. These modules may include
- Binary Evolution
- Galaxy Interactions
- Solar System Dynamics
- Stellar Evolution
Study resources
- Reading materials.