ASTR 11303 - Galactic Astronomy and Cosmology

Credits: 3

The structure, kinematics, formation, and evolution of the Milky Way Galaxy and other galaxies are studied. Elements of general relativity are introduced as the physics of supermassive black holes and active galaxies are examined. This course covers relativistic (Big Bang) cosmology, the large-scale structure of the Universe, the expansion history and fate of the Universe, and current estimates of the age of the Universe. Observations that measure the matter and energy content of the Universe are presented. Cosmic inflation, primordial nucleosynthesis, the Cosmic Microwave Background, and the Hubble flow are covered in depth.

Prerequisite Courses: ASTR 11230 with a minimum grade of D- and PHYS 00222 with a minimum grade of D-
Course Attributes: CAT, UGRD
Academic Department: Physics & Astronomy