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401-7855-00L 6 Credits BSC , MSC D-MATH , D-INFK , D-PHYS
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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: 2026-06-01 11:31:16

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