This module explores astronomy in terms of its historical origins, practical observation skills and current physical models of the origin, nature and future of our Universe. Topics covered include: The Big Bang, stellar evolution, supernova explosions, white dwarfs, neutron stars, black holes, quasars and the search for extra-terrestrial life.

The module will also cover the fundamental instrumentation and optical techniques used in multiple areas of astronomy.

1. Discuss the history of astronomy including historical beliefs and major contributions to the field of astronomy.
2. Locate and identify celestial bodies and patterns in the night sky, and select the optimum method for sky observation.
3. Describe the major patterns and movements of the Sun, Moon, planets and stars with reference to the celestial sphere and the Earth’s rotation, revolution and precession.
4. Understand the different instrumentation used in the different areas of astronomy, e.g. reflecting & refracting telescopes, radio telescopes, space telescopes, high energy telescopes.

5. Discuss the origin of the solar system and describe the major physical characteristics of solar system objects.
6. Discuss the physical characteristics, evolution and fate of the Sun, stars, galaxies and the Universe.
7. Evaluate the evidence for extra-terrestrial life and the nature of possible life forms.

This module guides a learner through the semi-independent solution and management of a technical challenge. In general, the projects are based on measurement/control systems and allow the application, contextualisation, expansion and synthesis of the learner's knowledge/skills from previous modules. Students with specific areas of interest are encouraged to contribute to the development of their project topic.

1. Propose a feasible course of action in order to achieve a technical objective, including a rational program sequence and timing.
2. Select appropriate components and equipment.
3. Construct, test and modify a system as appropriate.
4. Monitor the progress achieved with respect to a designed program sequence.
5. Document the construction of a system to ensure repeatability.
6. Critically review the final system and the documentation produced.

This module combines several elements of classical physics and provides the learner with knowledge and understanding in the areas of Electricity and Magnetism Optics Mechanics Materials Physics Oscillations

1. Describe physical phenomena and systems, and explain these in context of a restricted theoretical framework.

2. Identify suitable mathematical, numerical and graphical techniques to solve specified theoretical problems and justify their selection.

3. Employ mathematical techniques and physical principles to describe and solve problems relating to physics.

4. Select most appropriate instruments / procedures for carrying out specified physical measurements.

5. Select most appropriate technique for analysis of measurement data and critically compare experimental observation with expectation

This is a course on mathematical concepts, methods and techniques employed in the solution of Physics problems with a focus on the purpose, methods and applications of differentiation, integration, matrix algebra and differential equations.

1. Apply differentiation to solve rates of change, optimisation and motion problems.

2. Formulate and evaluate integrals with applications toarea, work done, and mean values.

3. Employ matrix methods to solve linear systems of equations in two and three variables.

4. Solve first order differential equations by direct integration and separation of variables.
5. Communicate mathematical reasoning in a precise, logical manner using correct mathematical terminology and notation.

In this module, students will learn the physics of various types of sensors related to industry. The students will also learn the fundamentals of measurement science including accuracy, precision, calibration and linearity. In the second semester, students will learn about the operation and characteristics of basic closed loop control systems. Through lab exercises, the students will gain hands-on experience with sensors, measurement techniques, and close-loop control systems.

1. be able to perform a calibration of an instrument system through safe, and effective use of scientific instruments.

2. explain accuracy, sensitivity, linearity, precision, and hysteresis.

3. demonstrate a practical knowledge of null measurements, signal conditioning, and choice of measurement sensor.

4. model the dynamic response of first order scientific instrumentation

5. describe open-loop, and type 1 closed loop systems (both integrative and self-regulating processes).

6. define proportional controller characteristics and perform calculations on proportional control systems.

7. to demonstrate competence in recording, analyzing, and presenting experimental data from scientific measurements.

8. to demonstrate competence in determining global error in scientific measurements using primary and secondary data.

This course provides a knowledge of electronics as applied to instrument systems. Emphasis is placed on practical skills as well as developing theoretical know how.

1. Describe the characteristics and behaviour of analogue electronic components.
2. Describe electronic circuits and instrument systems, and explain their behaviour in the context of a restricted theoretical framework.
3. Carry out precise measurements using a range of electronic test equipment.
4. Employ mathematical techniques and physical principles to describe and solve problems relating to analogue electronic circuitry and signal-conditioning requirements.
5. Set up electronic signal-conditioning circuits using a variety of circuit elements to perform specified functions.
6. Test and troubleshoot analogue electronic circuits/electronic instrument systems.

This module consists of two strands: The programming strand introduces basic computer programming principles, which are used to design, calculate and display the solutions to practical problems in the fields of applied physics, instrumentation and mathematics. The signals and interfacing strand introduces the theory and practice of signal and interfacing.

1. Understand the basic elements of a high-level programming language: data types; input/output; operators; conditional, iterative & recursive structures; scripts and functions.

2. Create a computer program using the appropriate elements of a high-level language to solve physical, mathematical and word problems.

3. Analyse and interpret error messages to resolve errors in a computer program.

4. Recognise and discuss the importance and limitations of software methodologies.

5. Distinguish between the decimal, binary and hexadecimal numbering systems.

6. Construct practical circuits using logic gates.

7. Understand the principles of analog to dgital conversion and digital to analog conversion.

8. Recognize and demonstrate the principles of signal acquisition and signal conditioning.Illustrate and compare the characteristics of analog and digital signals.

9. Compare the operating principles of standard interfaces. Differentiate between different digital data storage techniques.

This module explores the physics of various green / low-carbon energy technologies including: wind energy, solar energy, nuclear energy, hydro energy, and energy storage options.

The module will inevitably touch on socio-political aspects of the energy landscape, including energy sustainability issues. However, the focus of the module will be on understanding some of the relevant physics involved, including aspects of: rotational mechanics, fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, electromagnetism, and nuclear physics.

1. Demonstrate a conceptual and theoretical understanding of aspects of rotational mechanicsand demonstrate capability of problem solving in relevant examples.

2. Demonstrate a conceptual and theoretical understanding of aspects of nuclear physics and nuclear energy.

3. Demonstrate a conceptual and theoretical understanding of aspects of thermodynamicsand demonstrate capability of problem solving in relevant examples.

4. Demonstrate a conceptual and theoretical understanding of aspects of light /matter interactions.

5. Understand the role of green and renewable energy technologies for a sustainable future.

This module builds on the knowledge and skills developed in 2nd year Electronic Instrumentation, introducing the learner to more complex electronic systems and instrumentation, and fostering a critical approach to the performance and application of electronic devices in instrument systems.

1. Assess the operational characteristics, applications and limitations of electronic devices, circuits and instrument systems. Explain the operation of such entities and analyse their performance.
2. Design, build and test electronic instrumentation systems for specified applications.
3. Identify appropriate tests to analyse/predict the response of electronic devices and instrument systems to specified stimuli.
4. Select appropriate analysis tools and techniques to diagnose electronic and instrument system faults.
5. Conduct laboratory work in accordance with safe practice.
6. Describe the operation and applications of a range of types of electronic devices.

Interfacing of instrument systems to allow for the control of the instrument using a computer is a key skill for an instrumentation scientist or engineer. The purpose of such computerised instrument systems is often signal measurement or process control. The content of this module builds on aspects introduced in previous modules and includes: understanding signals, making measurements of signals, interfacing instruments, and setting up computerised instrument systems.

1. Demonstrate a conceptual, theoretical and practical understanding of signals, including signal measurementand signal sampling.

2. Demonstrate knowledge of the principles, operation and limitations ofdigital sampling.

3. Describevarious Analogue to Digital Convertors (ADCs) and Digital to Analogue Convertors (DACs) and be aware of their relative strengths, weaknesses, limitations and application suitability.

4. Demonstrate a conceptual, theoretical and practical understanding of aspects of working with signals in the time domain and temporal frequency domain, including transforming betweendomains.

5. Demonstrate awareness of various programming environments and communication protocols used in industrial and scientific settingsfor data acquisition, instrument control, and industrial automation purposes.

6. Use a relevant programming environment to set up a range of computerised instrument systems for the purpose of data acquisition and control systems.

Medical imaging is an essential component of modern medicine and plays a key role in the diagnosis, treatment and monitoring of disease. Students will gain an understanding of the physics and instrumentation that underpin medical imaging techniques, such as: Ultrasound Imaging, X-ray Imaging, Computed Tomography and Nuclear Medicine. The aim of the module is to demonstrate the application of physical principles and instrumentation to these important areas of medical imaging.

1. Demonstrate specialised knowledge of imaging principles, techniques and instrumentation.

2. Select the most appropriate imaging technique for specific situations.

3. Utilise a range of imaging techniques and associated equipment in compliance with safe operating procedures.
4. Analyse the performance of imaging techniques in terms of accuracy, precision and resolution.
5. Characterise and assess the limitations of the imaging methods described in the syllabus.
6. Implement calibration procedures on specified imaging equipment.
7. To engage with online material, manage their own learning and time, and be able to learn independently.

Metrology covers three main topics:

1. The definition of internationally accepted units of measurement, the realisation of these units and their links to the seven definition constants.

2. The calibration of measurement instruments under best practice guidelines.

3. The establishment of traceability chains by determining and documenting the value and accuracy of a measurement and disseminating that knowledge.

1. Describe the development of the current SI unit definitions and their link to the seven defining constants.

2. Demonstrate an ability to determine and combine standard uncertainties to evaluate the measurement uncertainties associated with measurements and formulation of an uncertainty budget.

3. Demonstrate knowledge of the principles, performance, and documentation of calibration of industrial measurement equipment in accordance with ISO guidelines.

4. Complete calibration of measurement equipment.

5. Describe processes of dissemination of standards to calibration laboratories, traceability in calibration and determination of calibration intervals in accordance with ISO guidelines.

6. Translate questions of interest into statistical hypothesis, make decisions and draw conclusions on the basis of statistical analysis.

This module requires the design, implementation and characterisation of an instrument and/or control system(s) for specified application(s). Learners will work as part of a project team (typically 2 to 3 members).

Learners will be encouraged to work in an interdisciplinary manner where possible.

1. Work efficiently as part of a technical project team.
2. Apply formally acquired knowledge and skills in the context of a technical project.
3. Produce a rational schedule for the design and construction process.

4. Design, construct, test, calibrate and troubleshoot an instrumentation system.
5. Work within recognised safety regulations and procedures.
6. Summarise, assess and present the basis and results of the technical project.

Students are placed in an appropriate organisation in order to complete a (minimum) 10 week work placement / project. Placements / projects must be approved by the academic placement supervisor prior to commencement. The student will be placed under the guidance of a placement / project supervisor from the host company/institute/centre. This placement / project will provide the opportunity for each student to experience physics and/or instrumentation applied in an industrial or academic setting.

It should be noted that the project / placement may be carried out at ATU in an academic and/or research and development setting when facilitation at an external setting is not possible, or in cases where this is a preferential option.

1. Work effectively and efficiently either individually or as part of a technical project team.
2. Source/research/comprehend/synthesise/explain scientific and technical information, concepts and data relevant to an assignment in the field of physics and instrumentation.
3. Synthesise formally acquired knowledge and skills in the context of a technical assignment.
4. Work within recognised safety regulations and procedures with scientific/business ethics.
5. Illustrate the organisational structure of the host.

6. Communicate effectively with other staff.

7. Organise workload and set priorities.

This module provides the learner with specialised knowledge of: the physics of electricity and magnetism and its synthesis in Maxwell's equations; the development of the quantum theory of radiation and matter and its application to the description of atomic structure and spectra; special relativity, theory, applications and consequences.

1. Explain the principles of electricity, magnetism, special relativity and quantum physics.
2. Explain the theories of electricity and magnetism that lead to the derivation of Maxwell’s equations.
3. Apply physical principles to explain phenomena relating to electricity, magnetism, atoms and particles.
4. Obtain analytical and numerical solutions for a range of problems relating to electricity, magnetism, quantum and atomic physics, including relativistic considerations.
5. Select and use appropriate physical principles to describe and explain physical observations and measurements.
6. Choose appropriate mathematical and computational techniques, and use them to model and interpret physical phenomena.

Thermodynamics is the branch of physics that deals with heat, work, and temperature, and their relation to energy, entropy, and the physical properties of matter and radiation. Mechanics is the branch of physics that deals with the motion of physical objects. The content of this module builds on aspects of mechanics and thermodynamics that have been introduced in previous modules.

1. Demonstrate a conceptual and theoretical understanding of aspects of mechanics.

2. Demonstrate capability of problem solving in mechanics problems.

3. Demonstrate a conceptual and theoretical understanding of aspects of thermodynamics.

4. Demonstrate capability of problem solving in thermodynamicproblems.

This module will equip students with the mathematical concepts and techniques to analyse and solve problems in differentiation, integration, differential equations, Fourier series and Laplace transforms, and to model the solutions with computer software.

1. Differentiate a range of functions includinghyperbolic, implicit, parametricand multivariable functions, and apply the concepts and methods of differentiation to rates of change and optimisation problems.

2. Identify and employ the appropriate techniques required to evaluate a variety of integrals.

3. Formulate first and second order differential equations arising fromphysical system models, solve them by analytical and Laplace Transform methods, and interpret the results.

4. Derive the Fourier series representation of a periodic function.

5. Employ mathematical softwareto analyse and solve problems and to visualise solutions.

In this module, students will learn the concepts of proportional, integral, and derivative control. This will include basic controller tuning, and the design of disturbance rejection systems. Students will be introduced to Laplace domain analysis of first and second order systems. Students will also learn about steady-state errors of type 0,1, and 2 systems and errors due to disturbances.

1. Design and model first and 2nd order systems using time-domain and Laplace domain methods.

2. Have a working knowledge of impulse and step response of first and 2nd order systems using partial fractions and complex algebra.

3. Demonstrate competency in block diagram manipulation, and feed-back system design using poles and zeros.

4. Demonstrate a practical and theoretical working knowledge of PID control including system response, system design, and controller tuning.

5. Demonstrate competency in determining steady-state errors and disturbance errors in type 1, 2, and 3 integrative and self-regulating systems.

6. Measure and evaluate the frequency response of first and second order systems.

7. Use industrial grade robotics and programmable logic circuits equipment in an industrial setting.

8. Be able to keep detailed records of model design and testing, and analysis of simulation outputs.