Astrophysics Cosmology

AY2022/2023 Semester 1

This is a first course in cosmology which covers various astrophysical phenomena and fundamental aspects of standard cosmology. The required background tools such as Special and General Relativity are covered to make the module self-contained. The astrophysics topics covered include properties and structure of stars; stellar evolution and end-stage stellar remnants; binary systems and coalescing binaries which emit gravitational waves; gaseous interstellar medium; and basic properties of galaxies. Then we will expand to the entire universe and discuss about its evolution which is known as cosmology. The topics covered in cosmology include the discussion of the cosmological principle that leads to the derivation of the Friedmann-Robertson-Walker (FRW) metric. Then the kinematics and dynamics of the FRW metric will be discussed and the course closes with the problems in the FRW model and a brief mention of the solutions by postulating an inflationary era during the early evolution of the universe. Throughout this course, you will also appreciate the multi-disciplinary nature of this subject.