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Master

MSc in Astronomical Instrumentation and Technology

Why should you consider this masters program now?

We are living in a golden age of astronomy. From galaxies formed at the beginning of time, to black holes at the center of galaxies and planets around distant stars, modern observatories and instruments have opened a window that lets us peer at the universe in unprecedented detail.

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Modern astronomical observatories use sophisticated suites of instruments, and rely on cutting edge optics, electronics and computing hardware and software. There is an increasing demand for scientists and engineers having an understanding of these technologies. This Masters provides advanced courses, which together with an instrumentation-related research thesis will train you to a high level in this exciting area. This will enhance your prospects of obtaining funding for doctoral research or to be employed in any of these key technologies. If you want to do astronomical research or work in high tech optical or space science industries, this Masters program will prepare you for it.

Why do a masters in astronomical instrumentation in Galway?

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The Centre for Astronomy in Galway employs some of the leading experts for astronomical instrumentation in the country. The University of Galway via the Centre for Astronomy is a partner in designing and building the first generation of instruments for the European Southern Observatory's Extremely Large Telescope (ELT). This telescope, with a main mirror diameter of 39 m, will be the largest optical telescope ever constructed. Experts at the Centre for Astronomy are involved in designing the Multiconjugate adaptive Optics Relay For ELT Observations MORFEO, which allows to cancel atmospheric effects which would otherwise blur the images of this new massive telescope. Once completed the ELT will be able to make images of possibly habitable planets around nearby stars and maybe even the first real image of an Earth twin. Come to Galway and be part of the exciting future of astronomical technology and research.

Learn More About the Course

Course Content

The course is made up of 3 specialized taught modules (20 ECTS), several optional modules (10 ECTS) and a Master thesis project (60 ECTS) under the guidance of one of the subject experts from the Centre for Astronomy. The taught modules are carefully selected to give a good overview over modern astronomical research and instrument development:

PH5126 - Advanced Astronomical and Space Instrumentation: Modern Astronomy and Space Science advances by exploiting the latest advances in technology and instrumentation. In this module you will learn about the optical, mechanical and computing aspects of instrument design as applied to ground and space based telescopes. The module will cover detector technology, aspects of image and signal processing and the latest advances in adaptive optics and astronomical interferometry, satellite laser communication and ground observation. Assessment will be continuous and include individual/group projects on designing instruments or spacecraft.

PH5123 - Astroinformatics will give you a foundational basis in the core data science skills needed in order to fully engage and analyse the full diversity of image and spectral data that form the currency of the contemporary astronomical sciences. Topics to be explored include programming (in Python and R), statistical computing, image processing and machine learning. The course is practically oriented and assessed via continuous assessment, with extensive use of real-world case studies using data obtained from observatory and space mission data archives.

PH5127 - Modern Observational Facilities will introduce you to the worlds leading astronomical observatories, such as the ESO Very Large Telescope, the Atacama Large Millimeter Array or the James Webb Space Telescope. In this course you will learn how to make your scientific ideas become reality as we learn how to shape them into the form of experiments, test their feasibility with simulation software and finally write a competitive proposal for observation time.

Applications and Selections

Your first important step if you are interested in our Master program is to contact a staff member from the Centre for Astronomy to discuss possible topics for your research project. To get an idea what kind of work we are involved in check out our research pages.

Applications are made online via the University of Galway Postgraduate Applications System. Candidates are required to provide full CV and personal statement and the names of two academic references. As a prerequisite we require a finished undergraduate degree (BSc) in Physics or closely related disciplines. Typically the final mark should be not lower than a 2.1 in the Irish system (or equivalent for international students).

Hear from one of our recent graduates

Aaron Croke | Principal Technical Specialist - University of Galway

I completed the MSc in Astronomical Instrumentation and Technology after earning my undergraduate degree in Applied Physics. The course provided a fantastic opportunity to study both optics and astronomy. As a structured master's program, it allowed me the freedom to conduct my own research for my project while offering the guidance of courses that were instrumental in my growth as a researcher. My research focused on the design, testing, and calibration of telescope components. This experience enabled me to work closely with other researchers in the unit and smoothly transition to a PhD program following my master's degree. The skills I acquired were invaluable in both academic and industry settings, significantly accelerating my career.