LibGuides@Southampton: Physics and Astronomy: Home

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Library Research Skills Framework
The Library research skills framework is a tool you can use to ensure the appropriate skills are embedded throughout a programme in core and compulsory modules at the University of Southampton. Not all subjects and programmes will
be the same, but this gives a general guide to work from.
Database Orientation Programme
This programme covers databases, search strategies, subject guides and database tools.
Searching in databases
Information on building and using search strategies
Subject databases for Physics and Astronomy
Links to the full list of databases related to your subject area.
Library Resources and More
This interactive graphic provides resources and other useful links for you in your library journey.
Training for PHD researchers
Training for Undergraduates and PGT researchers
Overleaf, LaTex and Scientific writing
Includes tutorial on Overleaf, using LaTex and resources in Scientific Writing.
Organisations and Industry News
Learn about the latest news in your subject area.

Getting Started at the University

Where Do I Start? An interactive course about the university.
If you are new to the university then take a look here.

Physics and Astronomy LinkedIn Learning

LinkedIn Learning for Physics and Astronomy
The following pieces of software, programming languages and skills are recommended to those in Physics and Astronomy. You will need to log into LinkedIn Learning.

JoVE videos

JoVE Physics
Physics I covers classical mechanics and thermodynamics discussing relevant laws and equations; every topic is presented with experiments validating theoretical hypothesis, and real world contextual examples.
Physics II explores topics including electrostatics, magnetism, optics, wave-based oscillations, and electrical circuits; explaining underlying principles behind physical phenomena that have changed our world.

Common tools in a subject database

This short tutorial introduces you to the basic tools you will use in a subject database.

Select this link to use the accessible view of the tutorial

Interactive Database Tools Guide

Select the number next to each tool and use the immersive reader tool to hear a description of the tool.

Select the full screen [ ] option to fully view the screen.

Key Databases

Key Subject Resources

Accessing library resources from home

To connect to library resources such as databases and journals you will need to use the University’s VPN service called GlobalProtect. Advice on how to set your connection up can be found on the iSolutions page How do I set up VPN on my device?

Astrophysics Data System This link opens in a new window
The SAO/NASA Astrophysics Data System is a Digital Library portal for researchers in Astronomy and Physics. It contains searchable bibliographic records across the disciplines, and full-text scans of much of the astronomical literature. Further information.
arXiv This link opens in a new window
arXiv provides open access to research papers in physics and related disciplines. It includes articles not yet peer-reviewed/ published and allows access to cutting edge research.
Compendex This link opens in a new window
Compendex is the broadest and most complete engineering literature database available in the world. It provides a truly holistic and global view of peer reviewed and indexed publications with over 20 million records from 77 countries across 190 engineering disciplines. Further information.
HEP-INSPIRE This link opens in a new window
A high energy physics information system combining SPIRES database content, curated at DESY, Fermilab and SLAC, with digital library technology developed at CERN.
INSPEC This link opens in a new window
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A leading database in the fields of physics, electronics and electrical engineering, computers and control, and information technology. It contains abstracts of articles from over 3000 journals, as well as conference proceedings, books, technical reports and dissertations. Coverage: 1966 to date. Further information
SPIE Digital Library This link opens in a new window
This resource gives access to all the publications of the SPIE including: Spie Proceedings - original research papers presented at SPIE conferences (available two to four weeks after each event); SPIE Journals - peer-reviewed articles on applied research in optics and photonics; Spie eBooks - a collection of more than 160 optics and photonics titles incorporating monographs, tutorial texts and field guides.
Web of Science This link opens in a new window
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Previously called the Web of Knowledge. Provides access to a number of databases including Web of Science Core Collection (covering engineering, science, health, social science, humanities, etc.), BIOSIS (biological & biomedical science) and Inspec (physics, computing, electrical & electronic engineering, etc.). Select 'All Databases’ to search multiple databases simultaneously or choose an individual database.

Engineering Village is a platform that enables in-depth search and discovery of both current, archival and interdisciplinary content comprising research and technical information in the applied engineering and physical science domains. It hosts highly-curated databases in which content from global publishers is indexed from journals, conference proceedings, trade publication, dissertations, standards, books, patents and technical reports.

To learn more about SPIE, view the video or view the User Guide (pdf)

To see more databases go to the Subject databases tab

Useful Links

	Find your resources using Library Search
	Access your Reading Lists
	Academic Skills
	Library Research Services
	Institutional Repository (ePrints Soton)
	Contact Us

Your Engagement Librarian

Your Engagement Librarian

Name: Marcia Ostrowski
Email: libenqs@soton.ac.uk