Curriculum Astrophysics
The Astrophysics Curriculum offers students an in-depth specialistic, theoretical and experimental knowledge of different topics of astronomy and astrophysics, from solar physics to galactic and extra-galactic astrophysics. The training activities in experimental / observational topics include investigation techniques based on the acquisition and analysis of radiation used in Astrophysics; for theory, it deepens the concepts of gravitational interaction, as well as interaction between matter and radiation and between plasma and magnetic fields.
Knowledge that may be acquired concerns the in-depth study in particular fields, such as:
- physical processes in the Sun and Sun-Earth relations
- basic physical processes in space plasmas; interaction between plasma and magnetic fields
- physical processes related to spectra formation
- physical properties of the interstellar medium, star formation
- physical properties of stars: internal structure, atmospheres, evolution
- physical properties and dynamics of the Galaxy and galaxies
- topics on general relativity and cosmology
- physical processes associated with the propagation of cosmic rays
- study of the phenomena observed in the field of radio waves
- instrumentation and technologies used in astrophysics
- software of data analysis for the study of stellar spectra, of the magnetic structures in the solar atmosphere and for applications related to the search of extra-solar planets.
The comprehension of these topics is guaranteed by a wide range of teachings, delivered both through lectures and through experiments in specialized laboratories or with telescopes and radio telescopes, as well as by numerous seminars and possible internships abroad under Erasmus agreements. The test methods are based on individual exams, oral and / or written, as well as laboratory tests and theses .
The methodological tools acquired during the attendance of the courses of the Astrophysics Curriculum and the experience acquired in specialistic laboratories and at the observational sites (solar and stellar telescopes, radio telescopes) can be applied to areas related to theoretical, experimental and observational physics concerning various astrophysical processes, besides than to applications in the framework of ground-based infrastructures and satellite instruments.
Students will also acquire the ability to analyze large amounts of data (big data analysis) and to model complex systems and stochastic phenomena.
Coordinator: Prof. A. Lanzafame
