Macquarie University

Advanced Astrophysics - ASTR707

This unit covers the fundamental physics of celestial objects such as stars and galaxies. It starts with the physics of fluid dynamics and the interaction of matter with light; these concepts are then used to describe the interstellar medium, including star formation and the stellar feedback of energy and new elements. The unit concludes with a discussion of galactic formation and evolution from the standpoints of interstellar gas and stellar populations. Observations of real celestial objects are used throughout the unit as examples of the processes we need to explain.

Throughout the unit strong emphasis is placed on the connection between observations and interpretation. The student will gain an understanding of how different types of observations (imaging, spectroscopy, multi-wavelength approaches, survey approaches) can allow us to gain insight into specific astrophysical situations and how these observations can be interpreted in the light of theory. The scientific method will be used and emphasised as the backbone of all research and its stages underlined during class and all the activities.