Introductory Level Courses
These short courses are presented 4 times a year and you can spread your study
over 2 months or longer - the choice is yours. They are ideal first courses for
undergraduate study with the OU.
S194 Introducing Astronomy - a wide-ranging introduction to astronomy including
observations of the night sky.
S196 Planets: an Introduction - an introduction to planets and minor bodies in our
solar system, as well as planets around other stars.
S197 How the Universe Works - topics in cosmology and particle physics explore the
origin and behaviour of the Universe.
S198 Exploring Mars - focuses on the geology and
environment of the red planet, and looks at whether life may now exist, or in the
past have existed, on Mars.
Standard Courses
These longer courses are presented from February each year and last for 9 months.
The courses are intended for a wide range of people, and with proper preparation
they are suitable for anyone who has a general interest in astronomy, and who wants
to develop their understanding of astronomy and planetary science - e.g. amateur
astronomers, or schoolteachers who want to use the enormous attractiveness of the
subject matter to enhance their teaching of science (at all levels).
S282 Astronomy - covers the life cycles of the Sun and other stars; the Milky Way
and other galaxies; and the evolution of the Universe. It includes project work and
computer-based multimedia activities.
S283 Planetary Science and the Search for Life - covers the origin and evolution of
the solar system; planetary processes; and the structure and atmospheres of
planets. It explores the search for extrasolar planets and the possibility of life
existing beyond the Earth.
Practical Course
SXR208 Observing the Universe - based at the Observatori Astronomic de Mallorca,
it includes guidance on observational techniques in astronomy and planetary
science, then an intensive week-long programme of observations, data analysis
and investigation at an observatory.
Advanced Courses
S357 Space, Time and Cosmology - presents the topics of special and general
relativity with application to the Big Bang, cosmology and black holes.
S381 The Energetic Universe- includes studies of the life and death of stars,
interacting binary stars, and active galaxies, concentrating on the energetic
processes that occur in these systems.
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