Astronomical Geography

The course aims to provide basic qualitative and quantitative knowledge on the topics of Astronomical Geography included in the "Detailed Course Content" section, as well as the main methods of investigation in this discipline. Specifically, with reference to the so-called Dublin Descriptors, the course aims to provide the following knowledge and skills.

Knowledge and understanding abilities. Knowledge of different astronomical phenomena and their potential relationship with terrestrial phenomena, as well as the methods of investigation in astronomy and astrophysics.

Applying knowledge and understanding abilities. Ability to recognize, describe, and interpret astronomical phenomena and their potential influence on terrestrial phenomena, using a scientific investigation method.

Ability of making judgments. Ability to estimate and calculate the order of magnitude of the variables that describe an astronomical phenomenon. Ability to determine the physical model that best applies to the description of that phenomenon. Ability to assess the impact of an astronomical event on terrestrial phenomena and, more generally, on life and the terrestrial environment.

Communication skills. Ability to describe an astronomical phenomenon and, more generally, to share and communicate information, ideas, problems, and related solutions effectively, at various levels of depth and with different types of audiences, both specialists and non-specialists.

Learning skills. Ability to learn scientific concepts necessary for pursuing further studies with a high degree of independence, reinforcing one's self-updating and self-learning capabilities.

NB: Should the circumstances require online or blended teaching, appropriate modifications to what is hereby stated may be introduced, in order to achieve the main objectives of the course and the curriculum, described in the "Expected Learning Outcomes" and "Detailed Course Content" sections.

Introduction. The nature of astronomical research, celestial coordinates, electromagnetic radiation, telescopes.
The Sun and the solar system. Main motions of the Earth and the Moon, gravitation in the solar system, planets, satellites, minor bodies, Sun (atmosphere and interior).

Stars and stellar evolution. Luminosity and spectral classification of the stars, H-R diagram, stellar structure and stellar evolution.

Galaxies and cosmology. The Milky Way, galaxies, cosmology and life in the universe.

1.  Eric Chaisson & Steve McMillan - ASTRONOMY TODAY - Pearson

 For further readings

• Karttunen et al - FUNDAMENTAL ASTRONOMY - Springer

• Harry L. Shipman - L'UNIVERSO INQUIETO - Zanichelli

The clarity and mastery of the addressed topics (both from a qualitative and quantitative point of view), the critical vision of these topics and the presentation skills will contribute in equal measure to the formulation of the final grade. 

DATES OF THE EXAMS

Check the following web pages: 

•  https://studenti.smartedu.unict.it 
•  https://www.dipbiogeo.unict.it/corsi/l-32/calendario-esami-archivio

NB: Exams may take place online on the Microsoft Teams platform, depending on circumstances. 

INFORMATION FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES AND/OR SLD

In order to guarantee equal opportunities and in compliance with the laws in force, interested students can ask for a personal interview in order to plan any compensatory and/or dispensatory measures, according to the educational objectives and specific needs. It is also possible to contact the CInAP (Centro l'Integrazione Attiva e Partecipata - Servizi per le Disabilità e/o DSA) contact person at the department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences.