Extra-Galactic Astronomy

This course explores the origin, evolution, and large-scale structure of galaxies across the observable universe. Learners will examine how galaxies form and evolve, distinguish between normal and active galaxies, and investigate the evidence for supermassive black holes at the centres of galaxies. The course also explains how astronomers use observations across the electromagnetic spectrum, gravitational lensing, and gravitational waves to study some of the most energetic phenomena in the cosmos. By the end of the course, learners will be able to explain the unified model of active galaxies, evaluate the role of black holes in galaxy evolution, and describe the large-scale structure of the universe, including galaxy clusters, superclusters, filaments, and voids. Learners will also explore how quantum fluctuations in the early universe gave rise to the Cosmic Web observed today. What makes this course unique is its combination of observational astronomy, cosmology, and modern astrophysics. Drawing on discoveries from telescopes such as Hubble and JWST, the course connects cutting-edge research with the physical processes that shape galaxies and the universe on the largest scales.