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Accessibility statement
This module introduces the science of cosmology, which aims to answer fundamental questions about the nature, history and future of the Universe. You’ll develop skills to use the mathematical tools and physical models needed to describe the Universe on the largest scales and examine how today’s stars and galaxies came to exist. You’ll also explore a variety of phenomena of the distant Universe, from the earliest galaxies to black-hole jets and gamma-ray bursts. You’ll use a range of observational evidence to test theoretical ideas throughout the module; at times, you’ll come up against the limits of our current understanding.
The module introduces the fundamental concepts of modern cosmology and selected topics in extragalactic astrophysics. You’ll develop skills in applying the ideas of cosmology and the astrophysics of the distant Universe through problem-solving and using and interpreting observational evidence. You’ll explore how this evidence supports current theories about the Universe and its evolution and gain an understanding of current open questions and the limitations of our knowledge.
The module comprises printed books, supporting practical activities and online content.
Cosmology provides a thorough introduction to modern cosmology, beginning with an overview of current understanding to provide context for the more specialised topics that follow. You’ll then explore the basic concepts and mathematical language of special and general relativity, learning how these underpin our ability to describe the geometry of the Universe. The module introduces the metric describing the geometry of the Universe and the Friedmann equations that describe its expansion. You’ll learn how a small set of cosmological parameters define spacetime’s past and future evolution, then explore the key observational evidence supporting the current model and how observations measure these fundamental parameters. In later parts, you’ll follow a history of the Universe from the earliest particle interactions to the formation of structure via gravitational collapse and, eventually, the birth of stars and galaxies.
Three Python-based practical activities support this part of the module, providing hands-on experience working with cosmological models and observations.
The Distant Universe provides a series of in-depth study topics in extragalactic astrophysics, linked to each other and Cosmology by themes of relativity and the interaction of matter and radiation. You’ll examine how we find and study the first galaxies and learn about their impact on their surroundings. You’ll then consider in more depth how to use the technique of gravitational lensing – the bending of light by massive objects – to learn about distant galaxies and more nearby objects. You’ll also learn about the dynamic processes in the Universe’s most massive structures, galaxy clusters. Finally, the module introduces the topic of high-energy astrophysics; you’ll learn about observations and models of extreme phenomena, including jets from supermassive black holes and gamma-ray bursts.
Two further Python-based practical activities support Book 2, The Distant Universe.
There are no formal entry requirements for this module.
At The Open University, we believe education should be open to all, so we provide high-quality university education to anyone who wishes to realise their ambitions and fulfil their potential.
Even though there are no entry requirements, you’ll need an appropriate knowledge of mathematics and physics obtained through:
Are you ready for S385?
We recommend that you’ve completed:
Plus:
This module includes Python coding activities, which assume a good computing ability. If you’ve passed SXPS288, your coding experience should be appropriate. Otherwise, we recommend you undertake some Python preparation. Once a student, you can access the ‘Programming for Physical Sciences’ resource page with self-study material.
You’ll get help and support from an assigned tutor throughout your module.
They’ll help by:
Online tutorials run throughout the module. While they’re not compulsory, we strongly encourage you to participate. Where possible, we’ll make recordings available.
Course work includes:
You’ll have access to a module website, which includes:
We also provide physical:
The OU strives to make all aspects of study accessible to everyone, and this Accessibility Statement outlines what studying S385 involves. You should use this information to inform your study preparations and any discussions with us about how we can meet your needs.
To find out more about what kind of support and adjustments might be available, contact us or visit our Disability support website.
Cosmology and the distant Universe (S385) starts once a year – in October.
It will next start in October 2026.
We expect it to start for the last time in October 2030.
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