20105101

WiSe 15/16: Measurement techniques in astrophysics

Robert Wolf

Information for students

Eligible lecture of the module "Advanced Astronomy and Astrophysics" (Physics / Master). Open also for all students with interest in astronomy and astrophysics.

Additional information / Pre-requisites

Basic knowledge in physics and mathematics. Knowledge of the physics / B.Sc. Module "Einführung in die Astronomie und Astrophysik"

Comments

Since ages men are observing the solar system and the sky. While the early astronomy was restricted to observations which could be seen from earth with the bare eye, and with the introduction of optical instruments more could be "seen", however still only in the visible part of the spectrum, modern astronomy is based on a large variety of measurement techniques and technologies. It comprises a large part of the spectrum of electromagnetic waves, relies on the measurement of energetic particles and even tries to detect gravitational waves. Thereby, the equipment is not only standing on earth, but satellite based measurements or probes which are moving through the solar system are established technologies. The lecture explains the basic prinicples of these astronomical measurement techniques and technologies and illustrates accessible physical parameters and astrophysical objects. close