- Docente: Robert Benton Metcalf
- Credits: 6
- SSD: FIS/05
- Language: English
- Teaching Mode: Traditional lectures
- Campus: Bologna
-
Corso:
Second cycle degree programme (LM) in
Astrophysics and Cosmology (cod. 6765)
Also valid for Second cycle degree programme (LM) in Astrophysics and Cosmology (cod. 5828)
-
from Sep 24, 2025 to Dec 18, 2025
Learning outcomes
At the end of the course, the student will acquire the basic knowledge of the theory of gravitational lensing, and will be able to discuss the applications of lensing in different astrophysical branches. In particular, the student will be able to distinguish between different regimes of lensing (strong, weak, etc) and will learn through examples how to carry out lensing analyses. The basics of the Python programming language will also be taught to allow the students to better understand the examples and work on small projects.
Course contents
The course covers:
The propagation of light in a gravitational field.
The lensing equation & lensing potential.
Shear & convergence
Microlensing in our galaxy
detection of planets
Strong gravitational lensing by galaxies
lens models and their properties
Strong gravitational lensing by galaxy clusters
Lens modelling
Weak gravitational lensing
density reconstruction
cosmic shear & cosmology
The gravitational lensing of the cosmic microwave background
Readings/Bibliography
“Introduction to Gravitational Lensing — with python examples”, M. Meneghetti, 2021, Springer-Verlag
"Principles of Gravitational Lensing" - Congdon & Keeton
"Gravitational Lensing" - Dodelson
"Gravitational Lensing: strong, weak and micro" - Schneider, Kochaneck & Wambsganss
Teaching methods
The course includes lectures and practical computer projects that can be completed in class. We will explore both the theory of gravitational lensing and the practical aspects of deriving scientific information from observations.
Assessment methods
The assessment will consist of an oral exam of approximately 45 min. duration. Maximum of two rejections.
Students with learning disabilities or temporary or permanent disabilities: please contact the relevant University office promptly (https://site.unibo.it/ studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/ it [https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/it] ). The office will advise students of possible adjustments, that will be submitted to the professor for approval 15 days in advance. He/she will evaluate their suitability also in relation to the academic objectives of the course.
Teaching tools
Blackboard
Slides
Python Notebooks
Office hours
See the website of Robert Benton Metcalf