Admission requirements
This course is not very suitable for students with little or no affinity for programming or astrophysics. In order to successfully finish this course, you will need:
Bachelor's degree in Astronomy and/or Physics
Demonstrable knowledge of calculus
A fundamental knowledge of LINUX
Basic knowledge of the Python programming language
Description
During this course you will learn how to perform research with existing computational tools and simulation codes. This will be done using the AMUSE software. You will learn how to perform astronomical simulations using the AMUSE framework. Students, in groups of two, will have the choice from various projects to work on for a number of weeks and in the end give a presentation of the work done and the project results. We use the AMUSE environment to perform a number of simulations to study astrophysical phenomena.
Topics:
AMUSE in general
Gravitational dynamics
Stellar evolution
Hydrodynamics
Code coupling strategies
Python
Visualization
Algorithms
Course objectives
Be able to judge, select and adapt the proper numerical tools for conducting your own research.
Soft skills
In this course, students will be trained in the following behaviour-oriented skills:
Problem solving (recognizing and analyzing problems, solution-oriented thinking)
Analytical skills (analytical thinking, abstraction)
Critical assessment (asking questions, assumption validation)
Creativity (resourcefulness, lateral thinking)
Collaboration (extreme programming, joined research)
Timetable
See Astronomy master schedules
Mode of instruction
Lectures
Practical classes
Assessment method
Written exam, see the Astronomy master examination schedules
Homework assignments
Team projects
Brightspace
Brightspace will be used to communicate with students and to share lecture slides, homework assignments, and any extra materials. To have access, you need a student ULCN account.
Reading list
Registration
Via uSis. More information about signing up for your classes can be found here. Exchange and Study Abroad students, please see the Prospective students website for information on how to apply.
Contact information
Lecturer: Prof.dr. S.F. (Simon) Portegies Zwart
Assistants: Martijn Wilhelm
Remarks
Admission is decided on the first day of the course by means of an exam.