Introduction to Astronomy and Astrophysics (MVAstro0, MVSpec)

The lecture is equivalent to the bachelor module parts WPAstro.1+2 during the winter and summer terms but requires a slightly higher level of basic physical knowledge. 


Nevertheless also motivated 3rd semester BSc students are welcome to participate. 
This lecture is organised as a block course with 2 parts from Sep. 22 - Oct. 10th, 2025. 

Certificates are only given for active participation in the exercises (meaning also being present at all exercises) and passing the written examination.

Homework should/can be done in groups of 2(3)

Bachelor students

You can choose:

WPAstro.1,2:
- 8CP with marks (lab course needed for complete module)
- The written examination will be graded
- Marks count for the full 10CP including the lab course

MVAstro0:
- 8CP, no marks as a master module in the ‘Wahlbereich’
-
Master students (MVAstro0)
- 8CP, no marks - only passed
- Can be used as part of MVMod (specialisation in Astrophysics)
- Can be used as an option: just 8CP

PhD (including IMPRS)
Active participation in exercises is strongly recommended, and a successful written exam for certificate

More info on the rules for studying astronomy in Heidelberg: https://www.zah.uni-heidelberg.de/fileadmin/user_upload/downloads/Miscellaneous/Studyplan_Astro_English.pdf


Lecturers: Prof. Dr. Stefan Jordan, Dr. Markus Pössel

Lecture Introduction to Astronomy (V, block)
Time: daily 9:30 - 13:00, 22.09. - 10.10.2025 (1 free day on October 3)
Location: gHS (großer Hörsaal at Phil.12, 2nd floor) 

Exercises to Introduction to Astronomy 
Time: daily 14:30 - 16:00 (group 1), 16:00-17:30 (group 2)
Location: Neuer Hörsaal (at Phil.12)

The exercises are scheduled for 

Monday, September 22, 2025

Wednesday, September 24, 2025

Friday, September 26, 2025

Monday, September 29, 2025

Thursday, October 2, 2025

Monday, October 6, 2025

Wednesday, October 8, 2025

Friday, October 10, 2025

...

You must be present at the tutorials to fulfil the requirements of the module!

Content
22.9. Introduction/Fundamentals of Astronomy: Jordan
23.9. Fundamentals 2: Jordan
24.9. Sun and Planetary System 1: Jordan
25.9. Sun an Planetary System 2: Jordan
26.9. Telescopes and Instruments: Jordan
29.9. Radiation and stars: Jordan
30.9. Stellar evolution: Jordan
1.10. Our expanding universe 1 & 2: Pössel
2.10. Our expanding universe 3; Big Bang Phase 1: Pössel
(this one is online! https://eu02web.zoom-x.de/j/61020123915?pwd=C90wBuSIX1YP7bqFRLMYIwzeluNPSF.1 )
6.10. Big Bang Phase 2; Structure Formation: Pössel
7.10. Basic Galaxy Properties; Star Formation: Pössel
8.10. Stellar Motions in Galaxies; The Milky Way: Pössel
9.10. Central Black Holes; Active Galaxies; Gravitational Lensing: Pössel
10.10. Galaxy Groups and Clusters; Milky Way Archaeology; Galaxy Evolution: Pössel
16.10.: 10:00-12:00 Written exam, Seminar Room 106, Philosophenweg 12