Key facts
UNE unit code: ASTY221
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 1 - Online
- Yes
- Yes
- Yes
- 6
Unit information
Explore our understanding of the life and death of stars, the universe, and the big bang by studying this unit.
You will examine how our view of the solar system and wider universe has changed through history, and how we acquired this knowledge.
You will examine astronomical instruments and the physics behind methods of astronomical observation.
You will study what we know of topics such as the physical processes underlying the formation, lifespan, evolution and death of stars and the big bang and the resulting expansion of the universe.
This unit will also provide you with an account and physical explanation of exotic objects in the universe such as neutron stars, quasars, pulsars and black holes.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 1 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
| Start | Finish | Duration | Attendance | Offerings | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TBA | TBA | 4 days | Non-Mandatory Intensive School | All offerings |
Enrolment rules
Notes
Physics majors might consider PHYS208 (Astrophysics topic) which is a more mathematically-oriented alternative to this unit.
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- identify basic concepts from the many areas of astronomy, including motions in the sky, gravity, electromagnetic radiation, solar system, stars and galaxies;
- recognise and apply the scientific method to solve astronomical problems and to critically evaluate hypotheses and theories proposed;
- analyse and interpret information in order to communicate solutions to unpredictable and sometimes complex problems in the field of astronomy; and
- demonstrate competence in, and/or understanding of, the use of basic astronomical instruments.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment 1 - Quizzes | Yes | 20% | All offerings | 10 online quizzes worth 2% each. |
| Assessment 2 - Practicals or Essay | Yes | 30% | All offerings | Students select one option: Laboratory work at intensive school OR Essay (2000 words). No. Words: 2000 |
| Final Examination - Assurance Task | Yes | 50% | All offerings | Hurdle Task. It is mandatory to achieve a mark of 45% or greater on this examination in order to pass this unit. |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Students are expected to purchase prescribed material. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
Discovering the Universe International Edition
ISBN: 9781319248611
Comins, N., Macmillan Learning UK 11th ed. 2019
Text refers to: All offerings
Excellence in experience, equity and employability
Five Stars,
20 Years in a Row
UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 20 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience.
Good Universities Guide 2007-2026
Five Stars for
Social Equity
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities nationally and is #1 in NSW for Social Equity.
Good Universities Guide 2026
Five Stars for
Graduate Employment
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities for Graduate Full-Time Employment and Starting Salary.
Good Universities Guide 2026 (Undergraduate)
Diamond-Rated Digital Learning
UNE’s leadership in digital learning earned the highest ‘Diamond’ rating in a peer review.
ASCILITE TELAS 2025
Studying online
At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian university.
We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*
*The Good Universities Guide
Stay connected
Join our mailing list for updates and helpful tips to support your study plans. You can unsubscribe at any time.
- •Course updates and important changes as they happen
- •Key dates for intakes, deadlines, and enrolment steps
- •Application guidance, including supporting documentation requirements
- •Next steps and what to expect after you apply or enquire
Ready to stay in the loop?
GET IN TOUCH
Why study with us?
UNE’s flexibility and support made the transition smooth and helped me find a great balance between academic responsibilities and personal growth. It was the perfect place to study education while staying true to my rural roots.
What happens next?
Got a question about a course you'd like to study? Contact our Future Student Team for help.
2026 applications are now open. The application process only takes 20 minutes to complete. Don’t delay, apply now!
Your start date is based on the study period you choose to apply for.
