ASTR 390A - Topics in Astronomy

Institution:

University of Michigan-Dearborn

Subject:

Astronomy

Description:

Topic: Dark Matter, Dark Energy, Dark Future? An Introduction to 21st Century Cosmology. Modern cosmology, buttressed by increasingly precise observational data provided by space missions like HST, COBE, and WMAP, teaches that the universe is composed primarily of matter we cannot see nor properly characterize, the so-called 'dark matter,' and of energy whose source is unknown and may defy knowing, the ubiquitous 'dark energy.' This course will attempt to elucidate what we currently understand about the composition, structure and evolution of the universe based on general relativistic theory and astronomical observations of remote galaxies using both ground- and space-based technologies. Special attention will be given to the means by which important cosmological parameters that determine the structure of the universe, like the critical density, the Hubble parameter, and the curvature and cosmological constants, are established. If time permits, additional consideration will be given to the array of planned future space missions devoted to cosmology-related subjects.

Credits:

3.00

Credit Hours:

Prerequisites:

Corequisites:

Exclusions:

Level:

Instructional Type:

Lecture

Notes:

Additional Information:

Historical Version(s):

Institution Website:

www.umd.umich.edu/

Phone Number:

(313) 593-5000

Regional Accreditation:

North Central Association of Colleges and Schools

Calendar System:

Semester

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