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Teaching and learning nuclear astrophysics has its challenges as the field crosses multiple disciplines. When teaching nuclear astrophysics, one rarely has all the expertise necessary, and when learning nuclear astrophysics, it can be difficult at a single institution to access the broad range of resources and expertise needed. We therefore offer links to material that should help with teaching nuclear astrophysics, and with self-learning.
Course Materials
Stellar Astrophysics, Michigan State University
Graduate level course in stellar physics by Prof. Edward Brown at Michigan State University. Includes numerical MESA exercises.
Nuclear Astrophysics, Michigan State University
Course in nuclear astrophysics at Michigan State University (Prof. Hendrik Schatz). Includes lecture slides (ppt) and homework problems.
Particles and Nuclei I, Ohio University
Course on major topics in low-energy nuclear physics, emphasizing connections to contemporary research. Developed by Prof. Zach Meisel.
Nuclear Astrophysics, University of Sheffield
Course in nuclear astrophysics at The University of Sheffield (Dr. Matthew Malek). Includes lecture slides.
Topics in Nuclear Astrophysics, University of Notre Dame
Course "Topics in Nuclear Astrophysics" at the University of Notre Dame (Prof. Michael Wiescher).
Ion Beam Optics
Course "Ion Beam Optics" (Prof. George Berg, Prof. Manoel Couder).
Cosmic Origin of the Chemical Elements, MIT
In this series of short lecture videos, created to accompany her book Searching for the Oldest Stars: Ancient Relics from the Early Universe (Princeton University Press, 2019), Professor Anna Frebel reveals the secrets of stardust and explains the cosmic origin of the elements.
Other Teaching Materials
Scientific Animations
Animated movies visualize nuclear astrophysics model data and can greatly facilitate teaching and learning.
Oral Presentation Tips by Hendrik Schatz
Lecture Repository
Textbook List
Author: Christian Iliadis
This is brand new and therefore the most up-to-date book available. It covers most of nuclear astrophysics and will probably become the authoritative textbook in this field for quite some time.
Supernovae and Nucleosynthesis
Author: David Arnett
Good book on basics such as abundances, reaction rates, reaction networks, but in terms of astrophysical scenarios limited to massive star nucleosynthesis and supernovae. Lots of information on models - good book if you are interested in massive star nucleosynthesis models.
Nucleosynthesis and Chemical Evolution of Galaxies
Author: Bernard E. J. Pagel
Good, broad introduction to the basics. Main focus on galactic chemical evolution.
Principles of Stellar Evolution and Nucleosynthesis
Author: Donald Clayton
Outstanding book - a classic of the field - but to some extent outdated. Focus on stellar nucleosynthesis. In-depth discussion of stellar physics. A "must have" if you think you will work in nuclear astrophysics.
Author: Claus E. Rolfs and W.S. Rodney
Also a classic - for a long time the only book that covered experimental nuclear astrophysics aspects (mainly low energy stable beam experiments) together with astrophysics. Focus on nuclear physics of reaction rates and hydrogen/helium burning. Great book, used to be a must have for anybody working in the field. However, the Iliadis book has a similar scope and is more up to date.