Duration
20h Th, 10h Pr
Number of credits
| Master in space sciences (120 ECTS) | 3 crédits |
Lecturer
Language(s) of instruction
English language
Organisation and examination
Teaching in the first semester, review in January
Schedule
Units courses prerequisite and corequisite
Prerequisite or corequisite units are presented within each program
Learning unit contents
In astrophysics you are only allowed to watch your targets, you cannot manipulate them in a lab. Therefore, it is important to gather as much information as possible to understand the nature of the objects that are being investigated. In this context, temporal variability provides a precious tool.
The observational properties of many different categories of variable stars (including single and multiple objects) are presented. Various techniques to study these objects are described and the latest models derived from these observations are presented.
An important part of the course deals with multiple systems harbouring two or more stars. We consider the techniques used to infer fundamental stellar parameters (masses, radii,...) from the study of spectroscopic and eclipsing binaries. We also discuss interacting binaries, such as cataclysmic variables, novae, X-ray binaries,... For single stars, the lectures focus on the different categories of pulsating stars across the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram as well as their period-luminosity relations. The variability of massive stars, mainly due to structures in their stellar winds, is also described. Finally, we address some categories of late-type stars that display variability: R Corona Borealis stars, pre-main sequence stars and active, flaring star.
Learning outcomes of the learning unit
After completing this course, the students will be able to answer notably three major questions:
- What are the general properties of variable stars and how can they be used to better understand the processes in the Universe?
- How to extract the most relevant information from their spectra time-series and/or from their light curves?
- How to interpret the observed variability?
Prerequisite knowledge and skills
Good knowledge of mathematics, physics and classical mechanics.
Planned learning activities and teaching methods
During one or two hand-on session(s), the students have the opportunity to analyze the light curve of an eclipsing binary system and/or the radial velocity curve of a spectroscopic binary using dedicated software.
Based on the techniques taught during the hand-on sessions , the students will complete a personal project consisting either of the preparation of new observations of a variable star with the TIGRE robotic telescope, or of the analysis of such observations.
Mode of delivery (face-to-face ; distance-learning)
The face-to-face lectures are usually scheduled as 3h/week during the first semester. Starting from the academic year 2015-2016, the course will be offered only during uneven years.
Recommended or required readings
The lecture notes are provided in English as a pdf file.
Assessment methods and criteria
The evaluation emphasizes the understanding of the course and the ability to use the techniques that have been taught. To successfully pass the exam students have to learn and understand the course.
The assessment is composed of two parts: 33% based upon a short report on the personal project and another 67% based upon an oral examination.
Work placement(s)
Organizational remarks
The course is offered once every two years: uneven academic years (e.g. 2015 - 2016).
Contacts
Prof. Gregor Rauw
Institut d'Astrophysique et Géophysique, Bât. B5c
Allée du 6 Août, 19c
4000 Liège
Tel. +32-(0)4 366 9740
e-mail: g.rauw@uliege.be