ASTRONOMY I ESSAY 2009
I have assumed that you have completed your Library tutorial, that you know how to use the catalogue, and have some ability to use electronic databases.
Encyclopaedias are often a good starting point for an essay.
You may find the following encyclopaedias useful:
Encyclopedia of Astronomy and Astrophysics (Ref. 520.3 M974e)
Encyclopaedic Dictionary of Physics (Ref.530.3 E561)
McGraw-Hill encyclopedia of science and technology (Ref.. 503 M14.7).
Encyclopedia of Physics. 2nd.ed. (Ref. 530.03 E56.2)
Encyclopedia of physical science and technology (Ref.. 503 M613e).
When using encyclopaedias don't forget the yearbooks and supplements
General dictionaries (Ref 423) and subject dictionaries can supply definitions of terms, and explain unfamiliar terms.
Click on an essay title to find the appropriate help sheet
a. In the 1920s Edwin Hubble discovered that the Universe is expanding, and in the 1960s the Big Bang theory became the most successful theory for describing the origin of the Universe and this expansion. In the past ten years discoveries have been made that are forcing major modifications to the theory. Instead of the expansion of the Universe slowing with time, it appears that it is accelerating. Describe the relevant aspects of the Big Bang model, the nature of these recent observations, and their implications for the theory and our Universe.
b. Exoplanets. At this time, more than 200 planets have been discovered orbiting other stars. Describe how these discoveries have been made, and include a discussion about future missions and improvements that will result in more sensitive searches. If we are interested in finding planets that support life as we know it, what criteria might we use for choosing the targets of planned searches? Explain.
c. Mars Exploration. A highlight in astronomy in 2008 was the discovery of evidence of water ice at the Martian north pole. This is just one of a series of discoveries made over the past few decades with a number of surface rovers and satellites orbiting the planet. In this essay you will survey our current knowledge of the red planet, highlighting recent discoveries from these probes. You should also look to the future and discuss whether progress can continue with un-manned probes, or if instead a manned mission to the planet is necessary.
d. Discuss the contributions of women astronomers. You may concentrate on one or two women, or approach the topic more broadly. Be sure to clearly describe the astronomical work done by the women, as well as the relevant biographical details. Describe any particular difficulties faced by them in making their contributions in what was a male-dominated area of science. Do you think that astronomy today offers equal opportunities for all?
e. The History and Future of the Optical Telescope. The 2009 Year of Astronomy is partly a recognition of the 400th anniversary of Galileo first using a telescope for astronomical research. Since that time there have been many advances in the design and sensitivity of optical telescopes. Today, techniques exist for correcting the blurring effects of the atmosphere, and telescopes do more than image astronomical objects. For example, high precision spectroscopy is done to measure elemental abundances, wobbles of stars due to planets etc. This is a huge subject - you may decide to do a broad survey of the topic, or concentrate on a particular area.
