Astronomy Basics

This unit presents a series of lectures on introductory astrophysics which lays the foundation for the rest of the training programme. No previous experience of astrophysics is necessary, although knowledge of physics to degree level or equivalent is required. This unit provides the relevant background that underpins the whole programme and aims to highlight areas that inspires students to take up astronomy in the first place. Topics covered includes the physics of stars, the birth of stars and planets including our own origins, stellar death and the lifecycle of interstellar material, galaxies including active galaxies in particular and the Universe as a whole.

The multi-wavelength nature of astronomy, which is an essential aspect of modern research, are introduced during these lectures. There is a particular emphasis on the radio wave-band and the theories of the various emission processes that give rise to radio emission and the objects responsible. This includes free-free emission from HII regions, synchrotron emission from magnetised jets, pulsars, atomic and molecular lines, masers, the Zeeman effect and polarisation.

The structure of this 1-2 week unit is as follows. Mornings are be taken up with lectures and the afternoons are used for the workshops and assignments. These workshops allow you to put into practice what is taught during the lectures and to introduce more observational aspects of the material. The following links below will direct you to the materials which were taught in the most recent DARA training round. These materials change between the different countries so, if you want extra information/ material, please check out all of the countries.

Courses and materials