AS5521 Observational Techniques in Astrophysics

Academic year

2025 to 2026 Full Year

Further information on which modules are specific to your programme.

Key module information

SCOTCAT credits

15

The Scottish Credit Accumulation and Transfer (SCOTCAT) system allows credits gained in Scotland to be transferred between institutions. The number of credits associated with a module gives an indication of the amount of learning effort required by the learner. European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) credits are half the value of SCOTCAT credits.

SCQF level

SCQF level 11

The Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) provides an indication of the complexity of award qualifications and associated learning and operates on an ascending numeric scale from Levels 1-12 with SCQF Level 10 equating to a Scottish undergraduate Honours degree.

Availability restrictions

Available only to students on MSc Astrophysics.

Module description

This is a module that provides a complete overview of the practical part of research in observational astronomy. In the laboratory part, students learn how to plan observations with telescopes at the university observatory, followed by data reduction and analysis. The exact topics covered may change annually depending on resource availability; examples include galaxy imaging and exoplanet transits. The lecture part prepares the students for working with large-scale professional facilities and advanced observing techniques. The module includes optional observing training either with the James Gregory Telescopes in St Andrews, or with telescopes overseas. This training can be hands-on or remotely. Overall, students gain valuable experience in observation, data analysis, astronomical software, observing techniques, report and proposal writing.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisites

STUDENTS MUST BE REGISTERED FOR MSC ASTROPHYSICS.

Co-requisites

YOU MUST ALSO TAKE AS5500

Assessment pattern

Coursework = 100%

Re-assessment

Coursework = 100%, capped at grade 7

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact

Semester 1: 2 x 3.5hr supervised work x 10 weeks. Semester 2: 1hr interactive lecture x 10 weeks

Scheduled learning hours

80

The number of compulsory student:staff contact hours over the period of the module.

Guided independent study hours

70

The number of hours that students are expected to invest in independent study over the period of the module.

AS5521 Observational Techniques in Astrophysics

Academic year

2026 to 2027 Full Year

Further information on which modules are specific to your programme.

Key module information

SCOTCAT credits

15

The Scottish Credit Accumulation and Transfer (SCOTCAT) system allows credits gained in Scotland to be transferred between institutions. The number of credits associated with a module gives an indication of the amount of learning effort required by the learner. European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) credits are half the value of SCOTCAT credits.

SCQF level

SCQF level 11

The Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) provides an indication of the complexity of award qualifications and associated learning and operates on an ascending numeric scale from Levels 1-12 with SCQF Level 10 equating to a Scottish undergraduate Honours degree.

Availability restrictions

Available only to students on MSc Astrophysics.

Module description

This is a module that provides a complete overview of the practical part of research in observational astronomy. In the laboratory part, students learn how to plan observations with telescopes at the university observatory, followed by data reduction and analysis. The exact topics covered may change annually depending on resource availability; examples include galaxy imaging and exoplanet transits. The lecture part prepares the students for working with large-scale professional facilities and advanced observing techniques. The module includes optional observing training either with the James Gregory Telescopes in St Andrews, or with telescopes overseas. This training can be hands-on or remotely. Overall, students gain valuable experience in observation, data analysis, astronomical software, observing techniques, report and proposal writing.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisites

STUDENTS MUST BE REGISTERED FOR MSC ASTROPHYSICS.

Co-requisites

YOU MUST ALSO TAKE AS5500

Assessment pattern

Coursework = 100%

Re-assessment

Coursework = 100%, capped at grade 7

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact

Semester 1: 2 x 3.5hr supervised work x 10 weeks. Semester 2: 1hr interactive lecture x 10 weeks

Scheduled learning hours

80

The number of compulsory student:staff contact hours over the period of the module.

Guided independent study hours

70

The number of hours that students are expected to invest in independent study over the period of the module.

Intended learning outcomes

  • Write an observing proposal for advanced astronomical facilities.
  • Plan a set of observations, including scheduling, instrument setup, exposure times, lunar phase.
  • Operate optical telescopes competently.
  • Acquire optical images of various astronomical objects, including the necessary calibration data.
  • Carry out the basic reduction and advanced analysis of optical images.
  • Record and write up results in a professional manner.

Additional information from school

For guidance on AS and PH modules please consult the School Handbook at https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/physics-astronomy/students/ug/timetables-handbooks/