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Brian Schmidt
and
Paul Francis
This course covers cosmology – the study of our entire universe. Where did the universe come from? How will it end? What is the nature of space and time? For the first time in human history, we can give precise, reliable answers to many cosmological questions, thanks to a spectacular series of recent breakthroughs. But many of the most fundamental mysteries remain unsolved. In this course we will cover the latest advances and the unsolved mysteries. We will explain the recent observations, and with the help of guest speakers Lawrence Krauss and Brian Cox, we will explore the theories behind modern cosmology.
Read more
This course covers cosmology – the study of our entire universe. Where did the universe come from? How will it end? What is the nature of space and time? For the first time in human history, we can give precise, reliable answers to many cosmological questions, thanks to a spectacular series of recent breakthroughs. But many of the most fundamental mysteries remain unsolved. In this course we will cover the latest advances and the unsolved mysteries. We will explain the recent observations, and with the help of guest speakers Lawrence Krauss and Brian Cox, we will explore the theories behind modern cosmology.
Read more
This course covers cosmology – the study of our entire universe. Where did the universe come from? How will it end? What is the nature of space and time? For the first time in human history, we can give precise, reliable answers to many cosmological questions, thanks to a spectacular series of recent breakthroughs. But many of the most fundamental mysteries remain unsolved. In this course we will cover the latest advances and the unsolved mysteries. We will explain the recent observations, and with the help of guest speakers Lawrence Krauss and Brian Cox, we will explore the theories behind modern cosmology.
This course is designed for people who would like to get a deeper understanding of astronomy than that offered by popular science articles and shows. You will need reasonable high-school level Maths and Physics to get the most out of this course.
This is one of four ANUx courses which together make up the Australian National University's first year astrophysics program. You can take these four courses in any order. These courses compromise the Astrophysics XSeries. Learn more about the XSeries program and register for all the courses in the series today!
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/es6jnc/astrophysics
What's inside
Learning objectives
- An understanding of modern cosmology
- How astrophysicists investigate the origin, nature and fate of our universe
- An appreciation of the limits of our current knowledge
- An understanding of modern cosmology
- How astrophysicists investigate the origin, nature and fate of our universe
- An appreciation of the limits of our current knowledge
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Contains up-to-date information about the field, including recent breakthroughs and discoveries
Taught by Brian Schmidt, who won the Nobel Prize in Physics for his work on the accelerating expansion of the universe
Features guest speakers Lawrence Krauss and Brian Cox, who are recognized for their expertise in cosmology
Provides a comprehensive overview of modern cosmology
Includes interactive materials and resources to enhance understanding
Requires a high school level of math and physics knowledge
Save this course
Save Astrophysics: Cosmology to your list so you can find it easily later:
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Reviews summary
5-star astrophysics
According to students, Astrophysics: Cosmology is a captivating course that is interesting and inspiring. Students especially appreciate the teaching style and homework sets. Engaging activities such as investigating a fictional cosmos are common. One previous student highly recommends this class.
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Astrophysics: Cosmology with these
activities:
Review 'An Introduction to Modern Cosmology'
Show steps
This text provides a structured and convenient way to brush up and strengthen your background knowledge of cosmology.
View
Cosmological Inflation and Large-Scale Structure
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Acquire a copy of the book 'An Introduction to Modern Cosmology'
-
Read and take notes on the first three chapters
-
Complete the chapter exercises
-
Review your notes and compare them with the provided solutions
Organize and review your course notes and materials
Show steps
This activity helps improve your organization, synthesize your learning, and identify areas for further reinforcement.
Show steps
-
Gather all your notes, assignments, quizzes, and exams
-
Organize them into logical categories or folders
-
Review the materials regularly to reinforce your understanding
Show all two activities
Review 'An Introduction to Modern Cosmology'
Show steps
This text provides a structured and convenient way to brush up and strengthen your background knowledge of cosmology.
View
Cosmological Inflation and Large-Scale Structure
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Acquire a copy of the book 'An Introduction to Modern Cosmology'
- Read and take notes on the first three chapters
- Complete the chapter exercises
- Review your notes and compare them with the provided solutions
Organize and review your course notes and materials
Show steps
This activity helps improve your organization, synthesize your learning, and identify areas for further reinforcement.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather all your notes, assignments, quizzes, and exams
- Organize them into logical categories or folders
- Review the materials regularly to reinforce your understanding
Show all two activities
Career center
Learners who complete Astrophysics: Cosmology will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Theoretical Astrophysicist
Theoretical Astrophysicist
Theoretical Astrophysicists develop and test theories about the universe's origins, evolution, and composition. They use mathematical models and computer simulations to study the behavior of stars, galaxies, and other cosmic phenomena. A background in cosmology is a must-have for Theoretical Astrophysicists, as their work is largely focused on studying the universe as a whole.
Astrophysicist
Astrophysicist
Astrophysicists leverage principles of physics to model the universe's behavior, evolution, and composition. They study celestial objects, including those outside of our solar system, such as distant planets, stars, and galaxies. They also study the universe as a whole, including its origins and ultimate fate as well as the fundamental laws that govern it. Cosmology, which is the focus of this course, is a subfield of astrophysics.
Observational Astronomer
Observational Astronomer
Observational Astronomers observe celestial objects and collect data using a variety of telescopes, instruments, and space probes. They work closely with Theoretical Astronomers to help them refine and improve their theories and models. Cosmology relies heavily on observational data, so this career is closely related to the subject.
Research Scientist
Research Scientist
Research Scientists conduct scientific research in a variety of fields, including astrophysics and cosmology. They develop and test hypotheses, design and conduct experiments, and analyze data. A background in cosmology is a must-have for Research Scientists working in that sub-field.
Astronomer
Astronomer
Astronomers lead the study of all objects in the universe and use the information to build a better understanding of it. They research galaxies, planets, space dust, nebulae, black holes, and dark matter. Among other types of data, they analyze electromagnetic radiation in a variety of frequencies. A background in cosmology can help Astronomers separate background radiation from actual cosmic phenomena.
Science Teacher
Science Teacher
Science Teachers teach science courses at the K-12 level. They develop and implement lesson plans, grade assignments, and provide feedback to students. They must stay abreast of the latest developments in their field, and a background in cosmology could be especially relevant for teachers teaching earth science or astronomy courses.
Physicist
Physicist
Physicists study matter and energy, and they contribute to the development of new theories and technologies. They work in a variety of fields, from theoretical physics to applied physics to experimental physics. Cosmology has a strong theoretical basis, making it a sub-discipline of physics.
Software Architect
Software Architect
Software Engineers design, develop, and implement software systems. They work with a variety of programming languages and technologies to create software that meets the needs of users. While not all Software Engineers work in the field of astrophysics or cosmology, those who do can develop the software tools and systems that scientists use to collect and analyze data, simulate the evolution of the universe, and visualize complex astrophysical phenomena.
Statistician
Statistician
Statisticians collect, analyze, interpret, and present data. They develop and implement statistical methods to solve problems in a variety of fields. Statisticians may work with Astrophysicists to design and analyze surveys, or to develop new methods for analyzing astronomical data.
Technical Writer
Technical Writer
Technical Writers create and edit technical documents, such as instruction manuals, white papers, and marketing materials. They must be able to clearly and concisely explain complex technical concepts to a variety of audiences. A background in cosmology may be helpful for Technical Writers who work in the field of astrophysics or astronomy.
Data Scientist
Data Scientist
Data Scientists create and develop analytical tools that bring insights from data. They use techniques such as statistical modeling and data mining. As data becomes increasingly available from advanced telescopes and space probes, Data Scientists can use their expertise to help Astrophysicists interpret this data and test hypotheses about the universe's origins and evolution.
Writer
Writer
Writers create and edit written content, such as articles, books, and scripts. They may work in a variety of fields, including journalism, marketing, and academia. A background in cosmology may be helpful for Writers who work in the field of science writing or who write about astronomy or space exploration.
Mathematician
Mathematician
Mathematicians devise theories and study mathematical structures, creating new mathematical knowledge. They may also explore how mathematical concepts can be applied to help solve complex problems in physics, astronomy, or other fields. Cosmology is a very mathematical discipline, so having a strong foundation in math can help Mathematicians working in theoretical cosmology to develop theories about the universe's origins and evolution.
Engineer
Engineer
Engineers work with complex systems, from rockets to satellites to telescopes, and they may work to bring new technologies to the field of astrophysics or make existing systems more efficient. Modern cosmology relies heavily on new technologies to make groundbreaking discoveries. Engineers play a critical role in this.
Project Manager
Project Manager
Project Managers lead and manage the work of a team to achieve specific goals within a defined timeframe and budget. They ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and according to specifications. A deep understanding of the field of cosmology may be helpful for Project Managers working on space exploration or related projects.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/es6jnc/astrophysics
Reading list
We've selected 23 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Astrophysics: Cosmology.
This advanced textbook provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of cosmology and astrophysics. It valuable reference for researchers and graduate students in the field.
Save
This comprehensive textbook provides an in-depth overview of modern cosmology, covering topics such as the Big Bang, dark matter, dark energy, and the cosmic microwave background. It valuable reference for students and researchers in the field.
This classic textbook provides a detailed overview of the early universe, covering topics such as the Big Bang, nucleosynthesis, and the formation of the first stars and galaxies. It valuable reference for researchers and graduate students in the field.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of cosmology, from the Big Bang to the formation of galaxies and the evolution of the universe. It valuable resource for students and researchers in the field.
Save
Provides a detailed introduction to the early universe, from the Big Bang to the formation of the first stars and galaxies. It valuable resource for students and researchers in the field.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the inflationary universe theory, which is one of the leading theories of how the universe began. It valuable reference for researchers and graduate students in the field.
This introductory textbook provides a clear and concise overview of the key concepts of modern cosmology. It good starting point for students and general readers who want to learn more about the subject.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of dark matter and dark energy, two of the most mysterious and important topics in cosmology. It is written in a clear and engaging style, and is suitable for both general readers and students.
This popular science book provides a clear and engaging overview of cosmology for general readers. It good starting point for people who want to learn more about the subject without getting bogged down in technical details.
Save
Provides a fascinating and thought-provoking overview of the nature of black holes and the role they play in cosmology. It good starting point for people who want to learn more about the subject without getting bogged down in technical details.
Save
This popular science book provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of cosmology for general readers. It good starting point for people who want to learn more about the subject without getting bogged down in technical details.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the concept of string theory, and explores the implications of this concept for our understanding of the universe. It is written in a clear and engaging style, and is suitable for both general readers and students.
This popular science book provides a fascinating and thought-provoking overview of cosmology for general readers. It good starting point for people who want to learn more about the subject without getting bogged down in technical details.
This popular science book explores the big questions of cosmology, such as the nature of time, space, and the universe itself. It good starting point for people who want to learn more about the subject without getting bogged down in technical details.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the concept of parallel universes, and explores the implications of this concept for our understanding of the universe. It is written in a clear and engaging style, and is suitable for both general readers and students.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the concept of the multiverse, and explores the implications of this concept for our understanding of the universe. It is written in a clear and engaging style, and is suitable for both general readers and students.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the concept of parallel universes, and explores the implications of this concept for our understanding of the universe. It is written in a clear and engaging style, and is suitable for both general readers and students.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the concept of superstrings, hidden dimensions, and the quest for the ultimate theory of everything. It is written in a clear and engaging style, and is suitable for both general readers and students.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the concept of quantum physics, and explores the implications of this concept for our understanding of the universe. It is written in a clear and engaging style, and is suitable for both general readers and students.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the concept of relativity, and explores the implications of this concept for our understanding of the universe. It is written in a clear and engaging style, and is suitable for both general readers and students.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the concept of the universe, and explores the implications of this concept for our understanding of the universe. It is written in a clear and engaging style, and is suitable for both general readers and students.
Save
This popular science book provides a fascinating and thought-provoking overview of cosmology for general readers. It good starting point for people who want to learn more about the subject without getting bogged down in technical details.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the concept of the cosmos, and explores the implications of this concept for our understanding of the universe. It is written in a clear and engaging style, and is suitable for both general readers and students.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/es6jnc/astrophysics
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Effort
2 to 4 hours per week for 10 weeks
Level
Intermediate
Via
edX
Institution
Australian National University
Instructors
Brian Schmidt
Paul Francis
Language
English
Transcript
English
This course belongs to a
collection
called
Astrophysics. It's comprised of four courses:
- Astrophysics: The Violent Universe
- Astrophysics: Cosmology (viewing)
- Astrophysics: Exploring Exoplanets
- Greatest Unsolved Mysteries of the Universe
Good to know
Contains up-to-date information about the field, including recent breakthroughs and discoveries
Taught by Brian Schmidt, who won the Nobel Prize in Physics for his work on the accelerating expansion of the universe
Features guest speakers Lawrence Krauss and Brian Cox, who are recognized for their expertise in cosmology
Provides a comprehensive overview of modern cosmology
Includes interactive materials and resources to enhance understanding
Requires a high school level of math and physics knowledge
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