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Science and Technology Studies

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HPSC0049

Issues examined will include the origins and development of astronomy, theories of the origin of the universe and of the nature of the universe, ideas of mankind's place within the universe.

History of Astronomy and Cosmology 

Charts mankind's changing conception of the universe from the ancient world to the current day. 

Firstly, to give a working knowledge of astronomy and cosmology from the Babylonians to the present day. The course divides into two roughly equal parts - ancient and classical astronomy and cosmology, to Einstein, and modern astronomy and cosmology after Einstein.The course will have three strands, looking at historical, technical and philosophical questions. This will be reflected in essay and exam questions, and students will be free to specialise in whatever period or type of question they see fit. Cosmology will be taken fairly broadly, and will encompass cosmogony and questions of man’s relation to the cosmos, as well as the philosophical principles which lie behind cosmology and cosmogony.

Course Objectives:

By the end of this course you should:

  • A working knowledge of the history of astronomy and cosmology. 
  • An appreciation of the development of views on the nature of space and time. 
  • An appreciation of debates about man’s place in the cosmos
  • A basic technical knowledge of major ancient and modern theories.
  • A knowledge of the philosophical principles underpinning cosmology and cosmogony

Course Syllabus:

UCL Module Catalogue: History of Astronomy and Cosmology (HPSC0049)

Introduction Videos

In 2018 and 2019 we filmed a series of videos with our teaching staff. Looking for an introduction to what each module covers? Interested in the kind of material and assessment you'll encouter? You can watch the 2018 and 2019 videos here - be aware that some details may change for 2023 teaching.

Downloads:

Undergraduate Modules

Postgraduate Modules

Timetable information

The online timetable provides official information about module times and locations. Students should continue to check class locations regularly using the online timetable as rooms are subject to change without prior notice.

Use the UCL Timetable for timetable information.

Get in touch:

Feel free to contact module tutors to discuss details. We normally can answer your questions quickly and easily:

General Enquiries:
email: sts-aa@ucl.ac.uk 
phone 0207 679 1324

Undergraduate Tutor
Dr Charlotte Sleigh
Tel: 020 7679 4006
Email: c.sleigh@ucl.ac.uk

Admissions Tutor

Dr Erman Sozudogru
Tel: 020 7679 0166
Email: erman.sozudogru@ucl.ac.uk