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Module PHYSICAL OPTICS AND ASTRONOMICAL INSTRUMENTATION

Module code: EP251
Credits: 5
Semester: 1
Department: EXPERIMENTAL PHYSICS
International: Yes
Coordinator: Prof. Anthony Murphy (EXPERIMENTAL PHYSICS)
Overview Overview
 

The aim of this module is to develop a solid understanding of the principles of Physical Optics and introduce astronomical telescopes, instrumentation & techniques.

Optics: Interference, Young's double slit experiment, phasor addition of waves, multiple slits, interference in thin films, Michelson interferometer; Diffraction, single slit, circular aperture, resolution, diffraction grating, spectral resolution; Polarization, Brewster's angle, law of Malus.

Astronomical instrumentation: Telescopes, resolution, aberrations, atmospheric seeing, Schmidt telescope, active optics, adaptive optics, optical detectors; Radio telescopes, interferometry; X-ray telescopes, other wavebands.

This module specifically addresses the following topics of the Core of Physics, as defined by Institute of Physics:

- Interference and diffraction at single and multiple apertures

- Dispersion by prisms and diffraction gratings

- Optical Cavities and laser action

Open Learning Outcomes
 
Open Teaching & Learning methods
 
Open Assessment
 
Open Autumn Supplementals/Resits
 
Open Pre-Requisites
 
Open Timetable
 
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