The course is Italian if there are no foreign students, otherwise it is in English.
Course Content
Astrophysical techniques in the various fields of research. The basics not covered in the course are elements of optics and the basic principles of telescopes and detectors. At least 50% of the time is spent in laboratory to apply the experimental techniques learned in the lectures. Therefore the telescopes, the detectors, the photometers and the spectrometers are used and the radio-station of Medicina is visited to learn the radio astronomy techniques.
Slides of the lectures.
Astrophysical Techniques, Kitchin.
Astronomical optics, Schroeder.
Scientific Paper
Learning Objectives
Complete the cultural and educational background of the student by training on the techniques and methods of observation and processing of data used in the various research fields in astrophysics.
Prerequisites
Knowledge of geometric optics and elements of optics.
Basic laboratory courses
Teaching Methods
Lectures providing for the basic elements and more than 50% of the time dedicated to experimentation in the laboratory and at the Polifunctional Observatory of Chianti to learn astrophysical techniques. The students are involved in a research experiment for a short time.
Type of Assessment
Students produce a report for each experiment in which they were involved (typically two to three) that discuss during the exam. This last also includes the discussion of various program topics.
Course program
Introduction: Experimental astronomy - Experiment management - Optical observation systems: relevant parameters, noise and detection limits - Detectors: relevant electro-optical parameters - Photometry & Spectroscopy - Experimental techniques for the study of planets and exoplanets - Laboratory: optical systems design using ray tracing techniques - Laboratory: Calibration of a CCD camera - Laboratory at the Chianti Observatory: photometry of variables or transit exoplanet - Laboratory: analysis of the acquired images - Radio astronomy techniques - Laboratory at the radio station of Medicina