Academic Team

Course Content

Type: Compulsory – AC Track – 1st Trimester

This course provides comprehensive training in astronomical observation methods and techniques, from planning observation programs to the professional analysis of data. Students will learn to use astronomical catalogs, calculate object visibility, and operate telescopes and instruments across different spectral ranges. The course combines theoretical foundations (positional astronomy, photometric systems, instrumentation) with hands-on practice in acquiring and reducing photometric and spectroscopic data using specialized software. It also covers the preparation of telescope time proposals and the use of virtual observatory tools.

Experience hands-on observing sessions at the UAM Observatory

Reading List

• Astronomy: Principles and Practice. A. E. Roy, D. Clarke. Adam Hilger Ltd., Bristol, UK.
• Spherical Astronomy. R. M. Green. Cambridge University Press, UK.
• Astrophysical Techniques. Erika Böhm-Vitense C. r: Kitchin. Adam Hilger Ltd., Bristol, UK.
• Astronomical Observations. G. Walker. Cambridge University Press, UK.
• Electronic and Computer-Aided Astronomy. From Eyes to Electronic Sensors I. S. MacLean. Ellis Horwood Ltd., Chichester

Teaching Plan Information

Course Schedule

Academic Team

Course Content

Type: Compulsory – AC Track – 1st Trimester

This course introduces the physical and mathematical foundations describing how radiation is generated, interacts, and propagates in astrophysical environments. Covering both classical processes and modern applications in stellar, extragalactic, and cosmological contexts, topics include radiative transfer, thermal and non-thermal radiation, radiative transitions, line broadening mechanisms, synchrotron emission, and radiative processes in galaxy formation and cosmology. An optional module explores molecular structure and transitions.

Reading List

• Radiative Processes in Astrophysics, George B. Rybicki & Alan P. Lightman see here
• Radiative Transfer Lecture, E.Tolstoy, See here.
• Radiative Transfer in Stellar Atmospheres, Rutten, R.J., See here

Teaching Plan Information

Course Schedule

Academic Team

Course Content

Type: Compulsory– AC Track – 2nd Trimester

This course offers an in-depth exploration of how stars form, evolve, and end their lives, integrating theoretical models with observational evidence. It begins with the physics of star formation within molecular clouds, introducing the role of gravity, turbulence, and magnetic fields in triggering stellar birth. Students will study the equations governing stellar structure, energy transport mechanisms (radiative and convective), and nuclear fusion processes powering stars at different evolutionary stages.

The programme examines the Hertzsprung–Russell diagram as a diagnostic tool, the classification of stellar populations, and the life cycles of stars of various masses—from low-mass stars like the Sun to massive stars that end as supernovae, neutron stars, or black holes. Special attention is given to binary systems, stellar pulsations, and the interpretation of multi-wavelength and multi-messenger observations.

Hands-on sessions include the analysis of real observational data, enabling students to connect theoretical predictions with actual measurements, and to familiarise themselves with the techniques used in modern astrophysics. This subject provides an essential foundation for advanced study and research in stellar astrophysics and related areas.

Reading List

• The internal constitution of the stars. Arthur S. Eddington. 1926. Cambridge Science Classics.
• Structure and Evolution of the Stars. M. Schwarzschild. 1958. Dover Pub. Inc., New York.
• Principles of Stellar Evolution and Nucleosynthesis. D. Clayton. 1968. McGraw Hill Inc., New York.
• Stellar Structure and Evolution. R. Kippenhahn & A. Weigert. 1990. Springer-Verlag.
• The Stars. E.L. Schatzman & F. Praderie. 1993. Springer-Verlag.
• Stellar Interiors. C.J. Hansen & S.D. Kawaler. 1994. Springer-Verlag.
• Evolution of stars and stellar populations, M. Salaris & S. Cassisi, 2005, John Wiley & Sons.
• An introduction to the theory of stellar structure and evolution, C. J. Hansen, S.D. Kawaler & V. Trimble, 2000, Cambridge University Press.

Teaching Plan Information

Course Schedule