Admission requirements
The course requires knowledge of optics (geometrical optics, physical optics, interference, diffraction), Fourier transforms, astronomical observing techniques and computer programming. Students who have not followed the bachelor's course Astronomical Observing Techniques (AOT) must follow the AOT crash-course during the first week.
Description
This course provides the fundamental understanding of how modern astronomical telescopes and optical instruments work and how they are designed; it is the cornerstone of the Astronomy and Instrumentation master's specialisation.
The first part of the course is focused on the fundamental physics that is relevant to understand the intricacies of modern optical instruments with a focus on the assumptions that are typically made. The second part applies this knowledge to optical components and optical design. The third part covers specific instrument categories that are typically found at astronomical observatories.
Students will write their own codes and use optical design software to apply their knowledge. Each student will present a specific instrument described in the literature to provide the class with insight into actual astronomical instruments.
The lectures and exercises cover the following topics:
Foundations of optics
Interference, diffraction and Fourier optics
Geometrical optics
Polarization
Thin films and coatings
Optical design
Telescopes
Imagers
Classical spectrographs
Advanced spectrographs
Interferometers
Polarimeters
Course objectives
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to design their own optical telescopes and instruments.
In particular, students will be able to:
Explain the fundamental optics principles used in modern astronomical instruments
Calculate the performance of simple optical systems
Design simple optical systems given certain specifications
Model the performance of thin-film coatings
Explain the respective advantages and disadvantages of different telescope designs
Model different telescope concepts
Explain the advantages and disadvantages of different imager and spectrograph designs
Simulate polarimeters for coherent and incoherent light
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, evidence)
Verbal communication (presenting, speaking, listening)
Critical thinking (asking questions, check assumptions)
Timetable
See Astronomy master schedules
Mode of instruction
Lectures
Exercise classes
Practical classes
Assessment method
Written exam: 60%, see the Astronomy master examination schedules
Homework assignments: 20%
Presentation: 20%
Retake exams will be oral. Homework assignments and presentation will still count for the final grade.
Blackboard
Blackboard will be used to communicate with students. To have access, you need an ULCN account. More information:
Reading list
Recommended but not mandatory:
Field Guide to Astronomical Instrumentation, by Keller, Navarro, Brandl, published by SPIE
Optics, by Eugene Hecht, published by Addison Wesley
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
Lecturers: Prof.dr. C.U. Keller
Assistant: Alexander Bohn
Course website: Astronomical Telescopes and Instruments
Remarks
Please note that this is a mandatory course for all master's students who follow the Astronomy and Instrumentation specialisation.