Template talk:Astronomy subfields

By Wikipedia's own definition of astrophysics, it says, Astrophysics is the branch of astronomy that deals with the physics of the universe, including the physical properties (luminosity, density, temperature, and chemical composition) of celestial objects such as stars, galaxies, and the interstellar medium, as well as their interactions. Our astronomy page gives a definition of astronomy which is much broader than that so I must say that, according to the definitions we have now, astrophysics is a branch of astronomy. Zrallo 20:45, 14 June 2007 (UTC)


 * Read the second paragraph, which says that modern astronomical research involves a substantial amount of physics. (Also note that the section is unreferenced.)  As a professional astronomer, I would not describe astrophysics as a subfield of astronomy.  I would be more likely to describe it as a synonym.  (Zrallo, what are your professional qualifications?)  Dr. Submillimeter 21:39, 14 June 2007 (UTC)


 * Well, if that is the case, than why are there two widely differing pages for two things that are synonyms of each other. I may not have professional qualifications, but I can read. Astrophysics is "the branch of astronomy that deals with the physics of the universe..." Our astronomy page says "It [Astronomy] is concerned with the evolution, physics, chemistry, meteorology, and motion of celestial objects..." According to this definition, the physics of the universe is merely a small part of astronomy. If, in your professional opinion, you think this definition needs to be changed, than please do so. However, as it stands, it makes sense to say that astrophysics is a branch of astronomy.
 * Zrallo 22:07, 14 June 2007 (UTC)


 * The pages were not written by professional astronomers/astrophysicists and need to be revised. Look, most of professional astronomy involves physics.  All professional astronomers study physics to earn their degrees, and many astronomers (such as me) actually hold physics degrees.  Please do not argue with me. Dr. Submillimeter 22:37, 14 June 2007 (UTC)