Python for Physics and Astronomy

The Python programming language is a widely used tool for basic research and engineering. Its rapid rise in popularity is supported by comprehensive, largely open-source, contributions from scientists who use for their own work. This short course offers an introduction to Python with examples drawn from physics and astronomy.

The topics and examples covered are --

1. Why program? Choosing a language.
2. Very simple Python
   1. Installing it on your computer
   2. Using it in real time
   3. Using code as a standalone program
   4. Examples
   5. Assignments
3. Elements of Python programming
   1. Input and output
   2. Data types: numbers and strings
   3. Lists, tuples, dictionaries, and statements
   4. Mathematics
   5. Examples
   6. Assignments
4. Solving problems with Python
   1. Flow control
   2. Functions
   3. Iteration
   4. Examples
   5. Assignments
5. Graphics
   1. Matplotlib
   2. Examples
   3. Assignments
6. Numpy, Scipy and Scikit
   1. Examples
   2. Assignments
7. Images
   1. Python Imaging Library - PIL
   2. Astronomical FITS files with Pyfits
   3. FITS headers
   4. Processing and displaying images
   5. Examples
   6. Assignments
8. Data acquisition and processing
   1. Real world interfacing
   2. Numerical data from images
   3. Fourier Transforms
   4. Spectra
   5. Probability and statistics
   6. Examples
   7. Assignments
9. Working with the web
   1. HTTP servers
   2. Getting data from servers
   3. Common gateway interface - CGI
   4. Using Python with CGI
   5. Programming for server-side processing
   6. Examples
   7. Assignments
10. Comparing Python to applications with other languages
    1. Web development with Android
    2. Instrument control and data analysis with LABView
    3. Astronomical calculations with Java: AstroCC
    4. Astronomical image processing and photometry with Java: AstroImageJ