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401-7855-00L 6 Credits BSC , MSC D-PHYS , D-INFK , D-MATH

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Computational Astrophysics (University of Zurich)

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Lucio Massimiliano Mayer

No enrolment to this course at ETH Zurich. Book the corresponding module directly at UZH as an incoming student. UZH Module Code: AST245 Mind the enrolment deadlines at UZH:

VVZ CR 2.8

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:48:02

Objective

Acquire knowledge of main methodologies for computer-based models of astrophysical systems,the physical equations behind them, and train such knowledge with simple examples of computer programmes

Content

1. Integration of ODE, Hamiltonians and Symplectic integration techniques, time adaptivity, time reversibility 2. Large-N gravity calculation, collisionless N-body systems and their simulation 3. Fast Fourier Transform and spectral methods in general 4. Eulerian Hydrodynamics: Upwinding, Riemann solvers, Limiters 5. Lagrangian Hydrodynamics: The SPH method 6. Resolution and instabilities in Hydrodynamics 7. Initial Conditions: Cosmological Simulations and Astrophysical Disks 8. Physical Approximations and Methods for Radiative Transfer in Astrophysics

Resources

Literature

Galactic Dynamics (Binney & Tremaine, Princeton University Press), Computer Simulation using Particles (Hockney & Eastwood CRC press), Targeted journal reviews on computational methods for astrophysical fluids (SPH, AMR, moving mesh)

General Information

Language: English
Levels: BSC , MSC
Frequency: Yearly recurring

Examination

Type: graded semester performance

Registration modalities, date and venue of this performance assessment are specified solely by the UZH.

Course Components

Type	Title	Time & Place	Hours
lecture	Computational Astrophysics (University of Zurich) Course at University of Zurich	Tue 12:15-13:45 Tue None-None	2 h weekly

Offered In

Computational Science and Engineering Bachelor
- Fields of Specialization
  - Astrophysics
Computer Science Bachelor
- Minor Courses
  - 3. Semester
  - 5. Semester
Computational Science and Engineering Master
- Fields of Specialization
  - Astrophysics
Physics Master
- Electives
  - Electives: Physics and Mathematics
    - Selection: Electives at the University of Zurich (University of Zurich lecturers explicitly recommended the following courses also to physics students at ETH Zurich. Recognition of the corresponding external ECTS credits has to be granted by the Director of Studies. Submit your request to the Study Administration ( ).)