Gamma Ray Bursts
CPD, 4 months, distance learning
Introduction
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Gamma Ray Bursts (GRBs) are short, intense flashes of gamma rays that can last from a few milliseconds to around 100 seconds and arise from the most violent and explosive events in the universe. Discovered in 1967 and remaining a mystery for more than a quarter of a century, these extraordinary events are only just starting to be understood thanks to recent developments in astronomical instrumentation. Fast communication between satellites such as NASA’s SWIFT satellite and rapid response ground based robotic telescopes such as the Liverpool Telescope have made it possible to observe and study these short lived phenomena.
This course is an excellent opportunity to learn about one of the most cutting edge topics in modern astronomy with unprecedented access to scientifically relevant data from one of the best instruments in the world. The course is designed to give a broad overview of the field of Gamma Ray Bursts including the history of the field, the relevant background physics, recent advances and our current understanding of these enigmatic objects.
The course is structured as follows:
- What are Gamma Rays?
- Historical Background
- A Physical look at GRBs
- The First Breakthrough
- The Second Breakthrough
- Why and How they Shine?
- Where do they Come From?
- What impact on modern astronomy has the discovery of Gamma Ray Bursts had?
Target Awards
A Certificate of Professional Development in Astronomy will be awarded for the successful completion of this module. This module is assigned 12 credit points which can be used to build up credits towards other academic qualifications at Liverpool John Moores University and other universities.
Entry requirements
School science or maths (UK GCSE equivalent). The course commences in May each year.
How to Apply
Please see: www.astro.livjm.ac.uk/distance
Tel: +44 (0)151 231 2900
Fax: +44 (0)151 231 2926
Address:
Astrophysics Research Institute
Liverpool John Moores University
Twelve Quays House, Egerton Wharf
Birkenhead, CH41 1LD
email: enquiry@astro.livjm.ac.uk
