Best Place To Start Learning About in Astrophysics

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To start learning about astrophysics, especially for someone with a basic math background, focusing on Special Relativity is recommended due to its minimal prerequisites in mathematics and physics. For a deeper understanding of cosmology and astrophysics, foundational knowledge in calculus and Newtonian mechanics is essential. Resources such as GCSE and A-Level mathematics syllabi can provide a solid starting point, followed by university-level texts. Online platforms like Khan Academy offer valuable materials for self-study. Engaging with articles on fundamental concepts, such as the Friedmann equations, can also enhance comprehension of cosmological principles without requiring advanced mathematics. Overall, beginning with these foundational areas will facilitate a better grasp of the broader topics in astrophysics.
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Summary:: Which area to best start learning about in Astrophysics.

I'm 44 years old and when I was at school we only learned basic things in Maths. Now I'm older, I'm fascinated by the Universe and Astrophysics etc. What would be the best things/areas, maths wise, to learn about first?
 
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TaurusSteve said:
Just so I can understand equations etc.
The GCSE and A-Level mathematics syllabus is covered here:

https://www.examsolutions.net/

That's the basic mathematical starting point. After that you are looking at university undergraduate level texts and courses.

More generally, there is the Khan Academy:

https://www.khanacademy.org/
 
TaurusSteve said:
I'm 44 years old and when I was at school we only learned basic things in Maths. Now I'm older, I'm fascinated by the Universe and Astrophysics etc. What would be the best things/areas, maths wise, to learn about first?
"Universe and Astrophysics" are very broad topics, covering almost all the physics and math domains/areas you can imagine. In my opinion, you cannot be wrong to begin with calculus and Newtonian mechanics.
 

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