ASTR 480 Introduction to Astronomical Data Analysis (5)
Hands-on experience with electronic imaging devices (CCDs) and software for image reduction and analysis. Introduction to operating systems, reduction software, and statistical analysis with applications to CCD photometry. Prerequisite: ASTR 300; ASTR 323, which may be taken concurrently.
Description
Class Meets on M (2:30-4:20) W F (2:30-3:50); there will be 1 or 2 observing nights per "team." This course will provide an introduction to the tools and techniques of observational astronomy. We will review the basics of using the concept of a celestial sphere to map the sky, and measuring the flux of an object to learn more about it. We will cover the basics of astronomical image analysis using IRAF, one of the standard packages used in the discipline. We will also learn how to characterize and use CCD detectors that form the foundation of modern optical wavelength astronomical observations. There will be a brief introduction to spectroscopy and how we reduce and analyze spectra. A major part of the quarter will be spent with students working on a hands-on project, planning and making their own observations, reducing and analyzing the data, and writing the report.
