Apply Scale Arguments
Apply the concepts of time, length, mass, and energy scales to understand the most important physical processes at work in different parts of the Universe.
Critique the Distance Scale
Identify the techniques that are used to measure the distances to different astronomical objects, explain the conceptual basis for each measurement method (such as trigonometry, standard candles, standard rulers, standard sirens, and the Hubble Law), and evaluate how they are assembled to produce a distance scale covering all astronomical objects.
Describe the Interactions of Electromagnetic Radiation
Identify the origins of various forms of electromagnetic radiation, and describe the physical principles behind the interactions between radiation and matter (including astronomical detectors).
Demonstrate a Working Knowledge of Gravitation
Apply quantitative Newtonian gravitational principles to the study of stars, galaxies, and cosmology. Demonstrate a qualitative understanding of the implications that general relativistic principles have when interpreting the foundational equations of cosmology.
Evaluate Star and Planet Formation Theory
Enumerate the steps of the theory that stars and planets form from large interstellar gas clouds, explain the physics justifying each step, and evaluate the theory by examining evidence collected from the solar system, other star systems, and gas clouds.
Evaluate Stellar Evolution Theory
Examine the construction of theoretical models of stars from physical principles, and compare models to the observed characteristics of stars.
Evaluate Galaxy Formation Theory
Enumerate the steps of the theory that galaxies form from overdensities in the early universe, explain the physics justifying each step, and evaluate the theory by examining evidence collected from local and high-redshift galaxies and the intergalactic medium.
Evaluate Big Bang Theory
Identify the evidence that led to a picture of an expanding universe, utilize physical principles to assemble a history of the evolution of the early universe, and explain how these lead to testable predictions about the universe’s history and future. Construct an argument based on astronomical evidence that the universe has evolved from a hot, dense state. Present the currently favored scientific theory for what the ultimate fate of our universe will be, and outline the astronomical observations upon which it is based.
Explain Research Motivation
Explain the motivation and goals for a research project in clear language.
Use Astronomical Tools
Use astronomical instruments (such as telescopes and detectors) to collect observational data, or demonstrate the analytical skills required to undertake a theoretical model, or both.
Analyze Observational Data
Calibrate, analyze, and model observational data in order to test appropriate theories, or undertake theoretical calculations to describe existing data.
Assess Uncertainties in Data
Assess the uncertainties in observational data or numerical simulations to evaluate the potential to successfully address a scientific question.
Draw Sound Conclusions From Evidence
Draw sound conclusions from observational or theoretical evidence.
Present Current Astronomical Research Advances
Be able to create and give an oral presentation that clearly demonstrates advanced understanding of a current research topic in astronomy.