SH1003 Introductory Astronomy for Engineers 7.5 credits

The course provides an introducion to basic concepts in astronomy and gives a scientific background to engineering in the field. The following topics are covered:

Classical astronomy: the movement of celestial bodies, coordinate systems, eclipses.

Telescopes and instruments: techniques at different wavelengths.

Stars: the sun, stellar evolution, the deaths of stars.

Planets: planets of the solar system, exoplanets.

Galaxies and cosmology: contents and properties of galaxies, Big Bang.

The latest break-throughs in astronomical research.

After completing the course the students should be able to:

1. explain basic terminology and concepts within all the mail areas of the course
2. describe and discuss methods that are used to determine the properties of astonomical objects (e.g, masses and distances)
3. describe and analyse a chosen topic in the area of telescopes/instruments from an engineering perspective. Present the results in a written report and talk.
4. describe topical questions in astronomical research.

Basic eligibility and Physics 1/Physics A

Recommended for students who study technical physics (or have equivalent knowledge in physics) SH2402 instead.

Basic eligibility, the course is aimed at all students in KTH.

The course requires no equipment

The course does not require course literature

If the course is discontinued, students may request to be examined during the following two academic years.

• LAB1 - Observing exercises, 1.5 credits, grading scale: P, F
• PRO1 - Project, 2.0 credits, grading scale: P, F
• TEN1 - Exam, 4.0 credits, grading scale: A, B, C, D, E, FX, F

Based on recommendation from KTH’s coordinator for disabilities, the examiner will decide how to adapt an examination for students with documented disability.

The examiner may apply another examination format when re-examining individual students.

The coursehas three examination parts:

1. A group project involving in-depth study of a topic in the area of telescopes/instruments, with emphasis on engineering aspects. The results are be presented in a written report and a talk. 2hp (P/F), objective 3.

2. Two observing exercises, presented in written reports. 1.5 hp (P/F), objectives 1 and 2.

3. Written exam. 4hp (A-F), objectives 1,2 and 4.

Pass grades inall examination parts

Yes

Josefin Larsson

• All members of a group are responsible for the group's work.
• In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used.
• In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.

For students who are in the enigneering physics programme (or have a similar background in physics) the course SH2402 is recommended instead.

Study visit related to space industry