Please note! Course description is confirmed for two academic years (1.8.2018-31.7.2020), which means that in general, e.g. Learning outcomes, assessment methods and key content stays unchanged. However, via course syllabus, it is possible to specify or change the course execution in each realization of the course, such as how the contact sessions are organized, assessment methods weighted or materials used.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

  • After the course the student has the basic knowledge of astronomy, space physics and space technology that are needed for further studies.
  • The student knows the structure and central physical properties of the universe and the solar system, and the objects contained in them.
  • She/he identifies the basic concepts and tools of astronomy and space physics, and is able to solve simple problems related to them.
  • The student can list what kind of observations can be made of astronomical and solar system phenomena, and what is the motivation behind such efforts.
  • She/he can compute simple orbits of satellites using celestial and orbital mechanics, and can apply various celestial coordinate systems.
  • The student recognises the basic vocabulary used in space science and technology, and how Aalto University is situated in the national and international space research scenes.

Credits: 5

Schedule: 07.09.2020 - 08.12.2020

Teacher in charge (valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022): Anne Lähteenmäki, Jaan Praks

Teacher in charge (applies in this implementation): Anne Lähteenmäki, Jaan Praks

Contact information for the course (valid 18.08.2020-21.12.2112):

Teachers

Anne Lähteenmäki, Jaan Praks, Esa Kallio, Merja Tornikoski and Joni Tammi.

Email firstname.lastname@aalto.fi

CEFR level (applies in this implementation):

Language of instruction and studies (valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022):

Teaching language: English

Languages of study attainment: English

CONTENT, ASSESSMENT AND WORKLOAD

Content
  • Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:

    • Basics of astronomy and space physics.
    • Building blocks and central properties of the universe and the solar system.
    • Emission mechanisms
    • Coordinate systems.
    • Celestial mechanics & orbits.
    • Observations of astronomical and solar system phenomena.
    • Space technology and missions.
    • Space science and technology research and education at Aalto University.

Assessment Methods and Criteria
  • Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:

    Exercises, learning assignments, examinations.

  • Applies in this implementation:

    Evaluation and course grades are based on assignments and final exam. They are weighted as follows: assignments 60%, exam 40%. Active participation in course activities is essential for passing the course.

Workload
  • Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:

    Contact hours 48 h (2 x 2 h per week). Independent work 87 h.

  • Applies in this implementation:

    In normal course mode: Contact hours 48 h (2 x 2 h per week), Independent work 87 h. To be applied as needed in online/remote mode.

DETAILS

Study Material
  • Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:

    To be specified.

  • Applies in this implementation:

    Lecture slides and additional material will be posted in MyCourses.

Prerequisites
  • Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:

    Basic knowledge of mathematics and physics.

Registration for Courses
  • Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:

    WebOodi

  • Applies in this implementation:

    The course is held in online/remote mode. Details to be announced in MyCourses.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Details on the schedule
  • Applies in this implementation:

    TBC in MyCourses.

Description

Registration and further information