Q: What’s the difference between cosmology and astronomy? A: Astronomy is the study of everything in the universe. Cosmology is a subsection of astronomy, and deals with the nature of the universe itself: its beginnings in the Big Bang, its early history, its current state, and its eventual end. …

Cosmology is the scientific study of the large scale properties of the Universe as a whole. It endeavors to use the scientific method to understand the origin, evolution and ultimate fate of the entire Universe.

Cosmology deals with the physical situation that is the context in the large for human existence: the universe has such a nature that our life is possible. This means that although it is a physical science, it is of particular importance in terms of its implications for human life.

Since the 20th century there have been two main types of astronomy, observational and theoretical astronomy. Observational astronomy uses telescopes and cameras to observe or look at stars, galaxies and other astronomical objects.

Astronomy and Space Sciences

• astrobiology.
• astronomy.
• astrophysics.
• astrostatistics.
• cosmology.
• data science.
• exoplanets.
• instrumentation.

Because some knowledge of physics and calculus is necessary to understand many astronomical phenomena, the Astronomy major requires the first two semesters each of physics and calculus also required of Physics majors and Astrophysics majors.

Branches of astronomy

• Atmospheric science – study of atmospheres and weather.
• Exoplanetology – various planets outside of the Solar System.
• Planetary formation – formation of planets and moons in the context of the formation and evolution of the Solar System.

As it is about the physics of the whole universe and how everything in it works, astronomers need to have a good knowledge of physics and maths, and chemistry is pretty helpful too. You would need to get good grades in your GCSEs and A-levels or Highers if you want to go on and study further.

Most astronauts have a master’s degree, and a PhD will significantly improve your chances of reaching the stars. A degree in astrophysics is an ideal starting point for would-be astronauts. Astrophysics is a broad subject that combines physics, chemistry, math, and cosmology.

Astronomy is the study of everything in the universe beyond Earth’s atmosphere. That includes objects we can see with our naked eyes, like the Sun , the Moon , the planets, and the stars .

astronomy

What is astronomy? Astronomy is the branch of science that studies the universe, the stars and the planets. Astronomy combines aspects of maths and physics to study how the universe was formed and the celestial bodies that are contained within it. It is the oldest of the natural sciences.

in Physics / Applied Mathematics / Astronomy / Computer Science or a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in engineering or technology with adequate background in physics and mathematics or are expected to qualify for these degrees.

Astronomy degrees typically last three or four years at undergraduate level and one or two years at master’s level, depending on the location. Teaching will usually be based around lectures, discussion sessions and practical seminars, including work in observatories.

Observing the Moon is one of the easiest ways to get started with astronomy. You can track the lunar cycle, and use binoculars or a telescope to see how your view of it changes. When the Moon is full, for example, it tends to be dazzlingly bright and one-dimensional.

By studying the cosmos beyond our own planet, we can understand where we came from, where we are going, and how physics works under conditions which are impossible to recreate on Earth. In astronomy, the Universe is our laboratory!

Astronomy as a hobby Astronomy can be a fascinating and rewarding pastime, whether you have a substantial telescope and accessories such as a CCD camera, or are a beginner observing with the naked eye.

Edx offers both individual courses and advanced programs designed to help you learn about astronomy in an engaging and effective online learning environment complete with video tutorials, quizzes and more. Additionally, edX offers the option to pursue verified certificates in astronomy courses.

EarthSky’s top 10 tips for super stargazers

• Watch the moon. Earth’s companion moon is visible from city streets, suburban decks and wide-open rural pastures.
• Watch the sun.
• Use a chart.
• Don’t buy a telescope yet.
• Notice patterns among the stars.
• Find a dark-sky site.
• Link up with astro-friends.
• Take the telescope plunge carefully.

A low magnification of around 50x will show you the whole moon and give you the “big picture.” But to see the moon at its best, try a high magnification, at least 150x. The moon can tolerate high magnification better than any object in the sky.

The moon itself does not reflect anywhere near enough light to harm your eyes. It is safe to look at, even with a telescope. However a lunar eclipse (the kind that occurs at night during some full moons) when the earth blocks the sun from the moon is completely safe to watch.

The rings of Saturn should be visible in even the smallest telescope at 25x [magnified by 25 times]. A good 3-inch scope at 50x [magnified by 50 times] can show them as a separate structure detached on all sides from the ball of the planet.

The Barlow lens, named after Peter Barlow, is a diverging lens which, used in series with other optics in an optical system, increases the effective focal length of an optical system as perceived by all components that are after it in the system. The practical result is that inserting a Barlow lens magnifies the image.

Unlike Jupiter and its four large Galilean moons, the rings of Saturn are only visible in a telescope. Any small telescope will do for a peek, though about 150mm/6-inch is recommended for a good view.

Most telescopes that cost less than $300 aren’t really worth it. We suggest getting good binoculars instead. Stay away from any telescope advertised for its magnifying power. For a child, look for a tabletop telescope that’s portable, easy to push around the sky, and virtually indestructible.