PHY6002 Stellar Astrophysics

Through the course, we will demonstrate how first principles in physics can be applied to understand the some key properties of stars. 

This is a colour magnitude diagram of a globular cluster as measured by PHY6002 students using Mt Kent telescopes. Through the course, we will explore the life cycle of stars through both theoretical and observational perspectives. 

We will derive the properties that cause molecular clouds to collapse, triggering stellar birth. We will derive the key differential equations that govern the interiors of stars. We will demonstrate how first princpals of stellar pulsations are great predictors for the properties of some variable stars. We will explore the deaths of stars, derive the Chandrasakar mass that at which point stars can no longer be supported by electron degeneracy pressure. 

We will then make use of Mt Kent Observatory telescopes to conduct observing projects that explore nebulae, clusters, and pulsating stars. Students can take remote control of Mt Kent telescopes individually to gather their observations, forming part of the assignments for the course.

The colour-magnitude diagram above is one measured by our telescope during the PHY6002 course. Using this diagram, students are able to identify red giants, main sequence stars, horizontal branch stars, amongst others.