Frontiers in Astronomy

Summary

This workshop module looks at three of the hot research areas in astronomy these days, namely Gamma-Ray Bursts (GRBs), Gravitational Waves and Dark Energy. GRBs are extremely energetic explosions that have been observed in distant galaxies and in learning more about them, students will undertake a mini-analysis of a typical GRB light-curve. We then turn our attention to Gravitational Waves: their detection and possible origin; and a quick demonstration will help students to visualise the mechanics behind such waves. We finish with a quick overview of dark energy, a mysterious form of energy that is thought to be driving the expansion of the Universe.

Age Range

11 – 16

Duration

45 minutes

Module Composition

• Gamma-Ray Bursts – Presentation
• Measuring GRBs – Practical Activity
• Gravitational Waves – Presentation
• Demonstration of Gravitational Waves – Practical Activity
• Dark Energy – Presentation

Extension Activities

• Gamma-Ray Burst Observations – current research being undertaken in our own department at LJMU.
• LIGO Lab – the world’s leading gravitational wave observatory.
• Dark Energy – NASA’s Fermi mission observations.