Key facts
UNE unit code: ASTY221
*You are viewing the 2024 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 1 - Online
- Yes
- Yes
- Yes
- 6
Unit information
Explore our understanding of the life and death of stars, the universe, and the big bang by studying this unit.
You will examine how our view of the solar system and wider universe has changed through history, and how we acquired this knowledge.
You will examine astronomical instruments and the physics behind methods of astronomical observation.
You will study what we know of topics such as the physical processes underlying the formation, lifespan, evolution and death of stars and the big bang and the resulting expansion of the universe.
This unit will also provide you with an account and physical explanation of exotic objects in the universe such as neutron stars, quasars, pulsars and black holes.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 1 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
| Start | Finish | Duration | Attendance | Offerings | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 April 2024 | 13 April 2024 | 4 days | Non-Mandatory Intensive School | All offerings |
Enrolment rules
Notes
Physics majors might consider PHYS208 (Astrophysics topic) which is a more mathematically-oriented alternative to this unit.
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- identify basic concepts from the many areas of astronomy, including motions in the sky, gravity, electromagnetic radiation, solar system, stars and galaxies;
- recognise and apply the scientific method to solve astronomical problems and to critically evaluate hypotheses and theories proposed;
- analyse and interpret information in order to communicate solutions to unpredictable and sometimes complex problems in the field of astronomy; and
- demonstrate competence in, and/or understanding of, the use of basic astronomical instruments.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment 1 | Yes | 20% | All offerings | 10 online quizzes @ 2% each. No. Words: 2000 |
| Assessment 2 | Yes | 30% | All offerings | Laboratory work at intensive school or essay. This assessment is mandatory and will count towards the final assessment of this unit. No. Words: 2000 |
| Final Examination | Yes | 50% | All offerings | Must obtain at least 45% in the Final Examination and obtain an overall passing grade. |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Students are expected to purchase prescribed material. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
Discovering the Universe International Edition
ISBN: 9781319248604
Comins, N., Macmillan Learning UK 11th ed. 2019
Text refers to: All offerings
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Studying online
At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian university.
We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*
*The Good Universities Guide
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