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Updated in [May 25th, 2023]

This course, Astrophysics: Exploring Exoplanets, provides an overview of the discovery of exoplanets and the revolution it has caused in modern astrophysics. It covers topics such as hot Jupiter-like planets, free-floating planets, planets made of diamond, planets with rain made of glass, super-Earths and planets orbiting neutron stars. The course is designed for those who would like to gain a deeper understanding of these mysteries than that offered by popular science articles and shows. It requires reasonable high-school level mathematics and physics to get the most out of it. This course is the second of four ANUx courses which together make up the Australian National University's first year astrophysics program. It follows on from the introductory course on the Greatest Unsolved Mysteries of the Universe, and is followed by courses on the violent universe and on cosmology.

[Applications]
The application of this course can be seen in the understanding of the formation of solar systems, the discovery of exoplanets, and the exploration of the universe. It can also be used to gain a deeper understanding of the mysteries of the universe than what is offered by popular science articles and shows. Additionally, this course can be used as part of the Australian National University's first year astrophysics program, which is part of the Astrophysics XSeries program.

[Career Paths]
1. Astronomer: Astronomers study the universe and its components, such as stars, planets, galaxies, and other celestial bodies. They use telescopes, satellites, and other instruments to observe and analyze the data they collect. Astronomers are also involved in the development of new technologies and techniques to improve our understanding of the universe. Astronomers are in high demand, and the field is expected to grow in the coming years.

2. Astrophysicist: Astrophysicists study the physical properties of the universe, such as its structure, composition, and evolution. They use mathematical models and computer simulations to analyze data and make predictions about the universe. Astrophysicists are also involved in the development of new technologies and techniques to improve our understanding of the universe. The field of astrophysics is expected to grow in the coming years.

3. Space Scientist: Space scientists study the physical properties of space, such as its structure, composition, and evolution. They use mathematical models and computer simulations to analyze data and make predictions about space. Space scientists are also involved in the development of new technologies and techniques to explore space. The field of space science is expected to grow in the coming years.

4. Exoplanet Researcher: Exoplanet researchers study the properties of exoplanets, which are planets outside of our solar system. They use telescopes, satellites, and other instruments to observe and analyze the data they collect. Exoplanet researchers are also involved in the development of new technologies and techniques to improve our understanding of exoplanets. The field of exoplanet research is expected to grow in the coming years.

[Education Paths]
1. Bachelor of Science in Astrophysics: This degree program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the physical principles and processes that govern the universe. Students will learn about the structure and evolution of stars, galaxies, and the universe, as well as the physics of black holes, neutron stars, and other exotic objects. The degree also covers the study of exoplanets, including their formation, composition, and habitability. Developing trends in this field include the use of advanced computer simulations to model the formation and evolution of planetary systems, as well as the use of powerful telescopes to observe and characterize exoplanets.

2. Master of Science in Astronomy and Astrophysics: This degree program provides students with a deeper understanding of the physical principles and processes that govern the universe. Students will learn about the structure and evolution of stars, galaxies, and the universe, as well as the physics of black holes, neutron stars, and other exotic objects. The degree also covers the study of exoplanets, including their formation, composition, and habitability. Developing trends in this field include the use of advanced computer simulations to model the formation and evolution of planetary systems, as well as the use of powerful telescopes to observe and characterize exoplanets.

3. Doctor of Philosophy in Astronomy and Astrophysics: This degree program provides students with an in-depth understanding of the physical principles and processes that govern the universe. Students will learn about the structure and evolution of stars, galaxies, and the universe, as well as the physics of black holes, neutron stars, and other exotic objects. The degree also covers the study of exoplanets, including their formation, composition, and habitability. Developing trends in this field include the use of advanced computer simulations to model the formation and evolution of planetary systems, as well as the use of powerful telescopes to observe and characterize exoplanets.

4. Master of Science in Space Science and Technology: This degree program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the physical principles and processes that govern the universe. Students will learn about the structure and evolution of stars, galaxies, and the universe, as well as the physics of black holes, neutron stars, and other exotic objects. The degree also covers the study of exoplanets, including their formation, composition, and habitability. Developing trends in this field include the use of advanced computer simulations to model the formation and evolution of planetary systems, as well as the use of powerful telescopes to observe and characterize exoplanets.