Detectors and Telescopes

(4 Credits)

This course describes the methods of astronomical visible light observation using imaging and spectroscopy techniques. It evaluates advanced processes in radiation and matter interaction. The focus is placed on soft- and high-energy radiation detection. Topics include general characteristics of radiation detectors, charged-coupled devices (CCD), sensor architecture, semiconductor detectors, and high-precision grating spectroscopy. In addition, students will study X-ray and Gamma-ray detectors in space, Gamma-ray detectors on the ground, Cosmic ray detectors in space, Cosmic ray detectors on the ground, neutrino experiments, and experimental techniques for gravitational waves detection. Signals and their transmission and electronics data acquisition will also be discussed. Finally, advanced topics in detection and spectroscopy will be presented and discussed in the form of term papers.