Program Overview

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Course Information

Course Description

The course SH2404 Astrophysics is a 7.5 credit course that covers various topics in astrophysics, including observational techniques and instruments, radiation transport, celestial mechanics, star formation and evolution, large-scale structure of the universe, and exoplanets.

Course Details

• Course location: AlbaNova
• Duration: 16 Mar 2026 - 1 Jun 2026
• Periods: Spring 2026: P4 (7.5 hp)
• Pace of study: 50%
• Application code: 61094
• Form of study: Normal Daytime
• Language of instruction: English
• Number of places: Places are not limited
• Target group: No information inserted
• Planned modular schedule: No information inserted

Course Syllabus

The course syllabus is available in an accessible format on the course page. The syllabus includes information on course contents, intended learning outcomes, literature, and examination.

Content and Learning Outcomes

Course Contents

The course covers the following topics:

• Observational techniques and instruments
• Radiation transport
• Celestial mechanics
• Star formation and evolution
• Large-scale structure of the universe
• Exoplanets

Intended Learning Outcomes

After passing the course, the student must be able to:

• Plan and carry out simple observations as well as evaluate the results and suggest improvements
• Describe different observation techniques and instruments and evaluate their advantages and disadvantages
• Explain how astronomical observations and measurements are carried out
• Describe the physical processes of how radiation is transported through matter and in the universe
• Explain how absorption and emission lines arise and how they can be used in analysis
• Explain and apply the theory of celestial mechanics
• Based on physical reasoning, explain the main stages in the development and structure of different star types
• Account for observations of the large-scale structure of the universe and reflect on theories for structure formation in the universe on both large and small scales
• Explain various aspects of the study of exoplanets

Literature and Preparations

Specific Prerequisites

• English B/English 6
• Completed course in Classical Physics (SK1104, SK1108, MJ1530 or equivalent)

Literature

Information about course literature can be found in the course memo or in the course room in Canvas.

Examination and Completion

Grading Scale

A, B, C, D, E, FX, F

Examination

• OBS1 - Observations, 1.5 credits, grading scale: P, F
• SEM1 - Seminar, 1.0 credits, grading scale: P, F
• TEN1 - Examination, 5.0 credits, grading scale: A, B, C, D, E, FX, F

Examiner

Felix Ryde

Ethical Approach

• 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

Further Information

Course Room in Canvas

Registered students can find further information about the implementation of the course in the course room in Canvas.

Offered by

SCI/Physics

Main Field of Study

Engineering Physics

Education Cycle

Second cycle

Part of Programme

• Master's Programme, Electromagnetics, Fusion and Space Engineering, year 1, SPA, Mandatory
• Degree Programme in Engineering Physics, year 3