Astrophysics Books

Book SynopsisThis book provides an accessible, yet thorough, introduction to special and general relativity, crafted and class-tested over many years of teaching. Suitable for advanced undergraduate and graduate students, this book provides clear descriptions of how to approach the mathematics and physics involved. It is also contains the latest exciting developments in the field, including dark energy, gravitational waves, and frame dragging.The table of contents has been carefully developed in consultation with a large number of instructors teaching courses worldwide, to ensure its wide applicability to modules on relativity and gravitation. Features: A clear, accessible writing style, presenting a sophisticated approach to the subject, that remains suitable for advanced undergraduate students and above Class-tested over many years To be accompanied by a partner volume on âAdvanced TopicsâTrade Review"In my view, this is a very readable text and very student-friendly. The presentation of the content is clear and there are lots of detailed illustrative examples (which are absent in many other GR texts). You might be aware that there is a strong interest on General Relativity course nowadays due to recent detection of gravitational wave and black imaging. This particular text will have potential to be well-like by students." — Prof. Kenneth Hong Chong Ming, National University of Singapore Table of Contents1. Relativity: A theory of space, time, and gravity 2. Basic special relativity 3. Lorentz transformation, I 4. Geometry of Lorentz invariance 5. Tensors on flat spaces 6. Lorentz transformation, II 7. Particle dynamics 8. Covariant electrodynamics 9. Energy-momentum of fields 10. Relativistic hydrodynamics 11. Equivalence of local gravity and acceleration 12. Acceleration in special relativity 13. Tensors on manifolds 14. Differential geometry 15. General relativity 16. The Schwarzschild metric 17. Physical effects of Schwarzschild spacetime 18. Linearized gravity 19. Relativistic cosmology. Appendix A: Invariance of the wave equation Appendix B: The Doppler effect Appendix C: Topics in linear algebra Appendix D: Topics in classical mechanics Appendix E: Photon and particle orbits

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Book Synopsis?This is a delightful account of one of the deepest and most fascinating explorations going on today at the frontier of our knowledge.? ?Carlo Rovelli, bestselling author of The Order of Time and Seven Brief Lessons on Physics?Musser knows that the point of popular science is [. . .] to get a sense of what?s at stake, what kinds of answers are being offered to difficult questions, and why it all matters. One could not ask more of Putting Ourselves Back in the Equation?on all three counts it delivers.? ?Julian Baggini, The Wall Street JournalA revelatory exploration of how a ?theory of everything? depends upon our understanding of the human mind.The whole goal of physics is to explain what we observe. For centuries, physicists believed that observations yielded faithful representations of what is out there. But when they began to study the subatomic realm, they found that observation often interferes with what is being observed?that the act of seeing changes what we see. The same is true of cosmology: our view of the universe is inevitably distorted by observation bias. And so whether they?re studying subatomic particles or galaxies, physicists must first explain consciousness?and for that they must turn to neuroscientists and philosophers of mind.Neuroscientists have painstakingly built up an understanding of the structure of the brain. Could this help physicists understand the levels of self-organization they observe in other systems? These same physicists, meanwhile, are trying to explain how particles organize themselves into the objects around us. Could their discoveries help explain how neurons produce our conscious experience?Exploring these questions and more, George Musser tackles the extraordinary interconnections between quantum mechanics, cosmology, human consciousness, and artificial intelligence. Combining vivid descriptive writing with portraits of scientists working on the cutting edge, Putting Ourselves Back in the Equation shows how theories of everything depend on theories of mind?and how they might be one and the same.

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Book SynopsisFor about half a century the general theory of relativity attracted little attention from physicists.Table of ContentsI. The General Theory of Relativity.- 1. Introduction.- 1.1. The Case for Nonflat Space—Time.- 1.2. The Principle of Equivalence.- 1.3. Conflict Between the Equivalence Principle and the Pseudo-Euclidean Metric: Gravitational Redshift.- 1.4. A Fifth Force.- 2. Tensor Calculus and Riemannian Geometry.- 2.1. Riemannian Geometry and the Metric Tensor.- 2.2. Vectors and Tensors.- 2.3. Invariant Volume and Volume Integral.- 2.4. Affine Connection—Parallel Transport.- 2.5. Covariant Differentiation.- 2.6. The Differential Equation of a Geodesic.- 2.7. The Integrability of Parallel Displacement.- 2.8. The Riemann—Christoffel Tensor.- 2.9. The Bianchi Identity.- 2.10. The Ricci Tensor and the Einstein Tensor.- 2.11. The Weyl Tensor.- 2.12. Geodesic Deviation.- 3. Einstein’s Field Equations.- 3.1. Einstein’s Formulation of the Field Equations.- 3.2. Weak Field Approximation (Static Case).- 3.3. Gravitational Waves in Weak Field Approximation.- 3.4. Detection of Gravitational Waves.- 3.5. Integration of the Linearized Equations for a Stationary Axially Symmetric Distribution.- 3.6. The Action Principle and the Energy—Momentum Tensors.- 3.7. The Energy—Stress Tensor.- 3.8. The Einstein Equations from the Variational Principle.- 4. The Schwarzschild Metric and Crucial Tests.- 4.1. The Schwarzschild Solution.- 4.2. Birkhoff’s Theorem.- 4.3. Three Crucial Tests.- 4.4. The PPN Formalism.- 4.5. The Schwarzschild or the Spherically Symmetric Black Hole.- 4.6. Frequency Shift of Spectral Lines of Light Emitted by a Collapsing/Exploding Spherical Body.- 4.7. Fall in Apparent Luminosity of a Collapsing Body.- 4.8. Kruskal—Szekeres Coordinates.- 4.9. Historical Note on the Schwarzschild Black Hole.- 5. Electromagnetism in General Relativity.- 5.1. Introduction.- 5.2. The Field of a Charged Particle.- 5.3. Static Electrovac.- 5.4. The Already Unified Field Theory.- 6. Axially Symmetric Fields.- 6.1. The Lie Derivative and the Killing Equation.- 6.2. Static and Stationary Metrics.- 6.3. The Axially Symmetric Static Metric.- 6.4. Weyl’s Canonical Form.- 6.5. The Case of Two Mass Particles.- 6.6. The Schwarzschild Metric in the Form (6.21).- 6.7. Stationary Axisymmetric Vacuum Solutions.- 7. The Kerr Metric or the Rotating Black Hole.- 7.1. The Kerr Metric in Boyer—Lindquist Coordinates.- 7.2. The Black Hole Property.- 7.3. Locally Nonrotating Observers.- 7.4. The Horizon as a Null Surface.- 7.5. The Kerr—Newmann Metric.- 7.6. The Penrose Process.- 8. The Energy—Momentum Pseudotensor of the Gravitational Field and Loss of Energy by Gravitational Radiation.- 8.1. The Pseudo-Energy—Momentum Tensor.- 8.2. Historical Note.- 8.3. Loss of Energy by Gravitational Radiation.- 8.4. The Case of a Binary Star.- 9. Analysis of the Observational Data of the Hulse—Taylor Pulsar. Confirmation of the Einstein Quadrupole Radiation Formula.- II. Relativistic Astrophysics.- 10. White Dwarf Stars.- 10.1. Introduction.- 10.2. The Contraction of a Radiating Star in the Absence of Energy Generation.- 10.3. Degeneracy and the Equation of State.- 10.4. Limiting Mass for White Dwarfs.- 10.5. A Simple Argument for the Mass Limit.- 10.6. Critique of Chandrasekhar’s Result and Later Works.- 10.7. Historical Note.- 10.8. Observational Data on White Dwarfs.- 10.9. The Cooling and Age of White Dwarfs.- 11. Stellar Evolution, Supernovae, and Compact Objects.- 11.1. Introduction.- 11.2. The Evolution of Stars.- 11.3. The Dynamical Collapse.- 11.4. Some Numerical Results.- 11.5. Explosive Processes.- 11.6. Supernova 1987 A.- 12. Pulsars.- 12.1. Introduction.- 12.2. Distance from Dispersion Measure.- 12.3. Identification of Pulsars as Neutron Stars.- 12.4. The Energetics of Pulsar Emission.- 12.5. The Magnetic Field at the Pulsar Surface.- 12.6. The Age of Pulsars.- 12.7. Calculation of the Braking Index.- 12.8. The Nonvacuum Model.- 12.9. Observational Determination of Pulsar Masses.- 12.10. Cooling of Neutron Stars—Theory and Observation.- 12.11. The Influence of Superfluidity.- 12.12. The Influence of Pion Condensation.- 12.13. The Influence of Quarks.- 13. Spherically Symmetric Star Models.- 13.1. Introduction.- 13.2. The Tolman, Oppenheimer—Volkoff Equation.- 13.3. The Equation of State for Cold Catalyzed Matter.- 13.4. A Model of a Neutron Star and the Mass Limits.- 13.5. The Problems of the Upper Mass Limit of Neutron Stars.- 13.6. The Influence of Rotation, etc., on the Mass Limit.- 13.7. Note on the Stability of Compact Objects.- 14. Black Holes.- 14.1. Introduction.- 14.2. The No-Hair Theorem.- 14.3. The Laws of Black Hole Physics.- 14.4. Black Hole Thermodynamics.- 14.5. The Identification of a Black Hole—Cygnus X-1.- 14.6. The Possible Locale of the Occurrence of Black Holes.- 14.7. The Quasi-Steller Objects (Quasars).- 14.8. Gravitational Lens.- 15. Accretion onto Compact Objects.- 15.1. Introduction—Spherically Symmetric Accretion.- 15.2. Disk Accretion.- 15.3. Compact X-Ray Sources.- III. Cosmology.- 16. The Standard Cosmological Model.- 16.1. Introduction to the Friedmann Metric.- 16.2. Elementary Discussion of Standard Cosmology.- 16.3. The Observational Background of Cosmology.- 16.4. Summary.- 17. The Singularity Problem.- 17.1. Introduction.- 17.2. The Raychaudhuri Equation.- 17.3. The Meaning of Shear, Vorticity, and Expansion.- 17.4. An Elementary Singularity Theorem.- 17.5. The Gödel Universe.- 17.6. General Singularity Theorems.- 18. Thermal History of the Universe—Cosmological Nucleosynthesis.- 18.1. The Thermal History.- 18.2. Cosmological Nucleosynthesis.- 19. Structure Formation in the Universe.- 19.1. The Problem.- 19.2. The Linear Growth Formula.- 19.3. Finite Perturbation.- 19:4. Structure Formation with Dark Matter.- 20. Grand Unified Theory and Spontaneous Symmetry Breaking.- 20.1. Introduction.- 20.2. Gauge Fields.- 20.3. Weak Interaction.- 20.4. Strong Interaction and Grand Unification.- 20.5. Baryon Asymmetry and the Baryon/Photon Ratio.- 21. The Inflationary Scenario.- 21.1. Introduction.- 21.2. The Problems in Terms of Entropy.- 21.3. The Vacuum Energy—Stress Tensor and the de Sitter Phase.- 21.4. The Different Models of Inflation.- 21.5. A Critique of the Inflationary Models.- 21.6. Fluctuations in the Inflationary Models.- 22. Concluding Remarks.- Appendix. Differential Forms.- A.1. Introductory Ideas and Definitions.- A.2. Connection 1-Forms and Ricci Rotation Coefficients.- A.3. Cartan’s Equations of Structure.- A.4. Bianchi Identities and Symmetry Properties of the Riemann—Christoffel Tensor.- A.5. An Example of the Calculation of the Riemann—Christoffel Tensor.- References.

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Book SynopsisHowever, most of the book can be read with very little knowledge of mathematics, and even if the reader skips the mathematically more involved sections, (s)he should get a good overview of the field of astronomy.Trade Review"No one involved in astronomy teaching or research would want to be without a copy." #The Physics Teacher#"Offers a range of expertise and authority impossible for a single-author text..." #Nature# "Fundamental ideas are developed clearly and applied to real problems, and solutions are worked out; this is the book's strength." #Sky & Telescope#Table of Contents1. Introduction.- 1.1 The Role of Astronomy.- 1.2 Astronomical Objects of Research.- 1.3 The Scale of the Universe.- 2. Spherical Astronomy.- 2.1 Spherical Trigonometry.- 2.2 The Earth.- 2.3 The Celestial Sphere.- 2.4 The Horizontal System.- 2.5 The Equatorial System.- 2.6 The Ecliptic System.- 2.7 The Galactic Coordinates.- 2.8 Perturbations of Coordinates.- 2.9 Constellations.- 2.10 Star Catalogues and Maps.- 2.11 Positional Astronomy.- 2.12 Time Reckoning.- 2.13 Astronomical Time Systems.- 2.14 Calendars.- 2.15 Exercises.- 3. Observations and Instruments.- 3.1 Observing Through the Atmosphere.- 3.2 Optical Telescopes.- 3.3 Detectors.- 3.4 Radio Telescopes.- 3.5 Other Wavelength Regions.- 3.6 Instruments of the Future.- 3.7 Other Forms of Energy.- 3.8 Exercises.- 4. Photometric Concepts and Magnitudes.- 4.1 Intensity, Flux Density and Luminosity.- 4.2 Apparent Magnitudes.- 4.3 Magnitude Systems.- 4.4 Absolute Magnitudes.- 4.5 Extinction and Optical Thickness.- 4.6 Exercises.- 5. Radiation Mechanisms.- 5.1 Radiation of Atoms and Molecules.- 5.2 The Hydrogen Atom.- 5.3 Quantum Numbers, Selection Rules, Population Numbers.- 5.4 Molecular Spectra.- 5.5 Continuous Spectra.- 5.6 Blackbody Radiation.- 5.7 Other Radiation Mechanisms.- 5.8 Radiative Transfer.- 5.9 Exercises.- 6. Temperatures.- 6.1 Exercises.- 7. Celestial Mechanics.- 7.1 Equations of Motion.- 7.2 Solution of the Equation of Motion.- 7.3 Equation of the Orbit and Kepler’s First Law.- 7.4 Orbital Elements.- 7.5 Kepler’s Second and Third Law.- 7.6 Orbit Determination.- 7.7 Position in the Orbit.- 7.8 Escape Velocity.- 7.9 Virial Theorem.- 7.10 The Jeans Limit.- 7.11 Exercises.- 8. The Solar System.- 8.1 An Overview.- 8.2 Planetary Configurations.- 8.3 Orbit of the Earth.- 8.4 Orbit of the Moon.- 8.5 Eclipses and Occultations.- 8.6 Albedos.- 8.7 Planetary Photometry, Polarimetry and Spectroscopy.- 8.8 Thermal Radiation of the Planets.- 8.9 The Structure of Planets.- 8.10 Planetary Surfaces.- 8.11 Atmospheres and Magnetospheres.- 8.12 Mercury.- 8.13 Venus.- 8.14 The Earth and the Moon.- 8.15 Mars.- 8.16 Asteroids.- 8.17 Jupiter.- 8.18 Saturn.- 8.19 Uranus, Neptune and Pluto.- 8.20 Minor Bodies of the Solar System.- 8.21 Cosmogony.- 8.22 Other Solar Systems.- 8.23 Exercises.- 9. Stellar Spectra.- 9.1 Measuring Spectra.- 9.2 The Harvard Spectral Classification.- 9.3 The Yerkes Spectral Classification.- 9.4 Peculiar Spectra.- 9.5 The Hertzsprung-Russell Diagram.- 9.6 Model Atmospheres.- 9.7 What Do the Observations Tell Us.- 10. Binary Stars and Stellar Masses.- 10.1 Visual Binaries.- 10.2 Astrometric Binary Stars.- 10.3 Spectroscopic Binaries.- 10.4 Photometric Binary Stars.- 10.5 Exercises.- 11. Stellar Structure.- 11.1 Internal Equilibrium Conditions.- 11.2 Physical State of the Gas.- 11.3 Stellar Energy Sources.- 11.4 Stellar Models.- 11.5 Exercises.- 12. Stellar Evolution.- 12.1 Evolutionary Time Scales.- 12.2 The Contraction of Stars Towards the Main Sequence.- 12.3 The Main Sequence Phase.- 12.4 The Giant Phase.- 12.5 The Final Stages of Evolution.- 12.6 The Evolution of Close Binary Stars.- 12.7 Comparison with Observations.- 12.8 The Origin of the Elements.- 13. The Sun.- 13.1 Internal Structure.- 13.2 The Atmosphere.- 13.3 Solar Activity.- 14. Variable Stars.- 14.1 Classification.- 14.2 Pulsating Variables.- 14.3 Eruptive Variables.- 14.4 Exercises.- 15. Compact Stars.- 15.1 White Dwarfs.- 15.2 Neutron Stars.- 15.3 Black Holes.- 16. The Interstellar Medium.- 16.1 Interstellar Dust.- 16.2 Interstellar Gas.- 16.3 Interstellar Molecules.- 16.4 The Formation of Protostars.- 16.5 Planetary Nebulae.- 16.6 Supernova Remnants.- 16.7 The Hot Corona of the Milky Way.- 16.8 Cosmic Rays and the Interstellar Magnetic Field.- 17. Star Clusters and Associations.- 17.1 Associations.- 17.2 Open Star Clusters.- 17.3 Globular Star Clusters.- 18. The Milky Way.- 18.1 Methods of Distance Measurement.- 18.2 Stellar Statistics.- 18.3 The Rotation of the Milky Way.- 18.4 The Structure and Evolution of the Milky Way.- 18.5 Exercises.- 19. Galaxies.- 19.1 The Classification of Galaxies.- 19.2 Elliptical Galaxies.- 19.3 Spiral Galaxies.- 19.4 Lenticular Galaxies.- 19.5 Luminosities of Galaxies.- 19.6 Masses of Galaxies.- 19.7 Systems of Galaxies.- 19.8 Distances of Galaxies.- 19.9 Active Galaxies and Quasars.- 19.10 The Origin and Evolution of Galaxies.- 20. Cosmology.- 20.1 Cosmological Observations.- 20.2 The Cosmological Principle.- 20.3 Homogeneous and Isotropic Universes.- 20.4 The Friedmann Models.- 20.5 Cosmological Tests.- 20.6 History of the Universe.- 20.7 The Future of the Universe.- Appendices.- A. Mathematics.- A.1 Geometry.- A.2 Taylor Series.- A.3 Vector Calculus.- A.4 Conic Sections.- A.5 Multiple Integrals.- A.6 Numerical Solution of an Equation.- B. Quantum Mechanics.- B.1 Quantum Mechanical Model of Atoms. Quantum Numbers.- B.2 Selection Rules and Transition Probabilities.- B.3 Heisenberg’ Uncertainty Principle.- B.4 Exclusion Principle.- C. Theory of Relativity.- C.1 Basic Concepts.- C.2 Lorentz Transformation. Minkowski Space.- C.3 General Relativity.- C.4 Tests of General Relativity.- D. Radio Astronomy Fundamentals.- D.1 Antenna Definitions.- D.2 Antenna Temperature and Flux Density.- E. Tables.- Further Reading.- Photograph Credits.

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Book SynopsisThe best-selling author of Stiff and Bonk explores the irresistibly strange universe of space travel and life without gravity.Trade Review"[Her] style is at its most substantial—and most hilarious—in the zero-gravity realm that Packing for Mars explores.… As startling as it is funny." -- Janet Maslin - The New York Times"This is the kind of smart, smirky stuff that Roach does so well." -- Geoff Nicholson - San Francisco Chronicle"Cool answers to questions about the void you didn’t even know you had." -- People"An utterly fascinating account, made all the more entertaining by the author’s ever-amused tone." -- BookPage"An impish and adventurous writer with a gleefully inquisitive mind and stand-up comic’s timing." -- Booklist"The author’s writing comes across as reportorial, but with a clear sense of humor; even the footnotes are used to both informational and comedic effect." -- Time Out New York"Hilarious." -- The New York Times Book Review"A delightful, illuminating grab bag of space-flight curiosities." -- Kirkus Reviews

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Book Synopsis“Few people know the real story behind the building of Apollo, but Mike Gray has managed to capture the drama and excitement of those urgent times. This is a fascinating book full of lessons about what America can achieve with vision and teamwork.” —Buzz Aldrin

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Book Synopsis“Who can ask for better cosmic tour guides to the universe than Drs. Tyson and Goldsmith?”—Michio Kaku, author of Hyperspace and Parallel WorldsTrade Review"Tyson and Goldsmith search the depths of the universe for clues to how billions of heavenly bodies, Earth, and life itself began. They energetically cover the breadth of modern cosmology." -- Science News

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Book SynopsisA rip-roaring tour of the cosmos with the Bad Astronomer, revealing the sky as never seen before—from everywhere but EarthTrade Review"A terrific guide to our spectacular universe...Plait is a skilled, resourceful and, on occasion, downright visionary guide to the far reaches of outer space. " -- Simon Ings - New Scientist"Plait has a well-deserved reputation as a lively and accurate communicator of cutting-edge science, and this universal tour guide offers a great opportunity for him to flex his explanatory muscles... this is a hugely enjoyable read that brings a new perspective to the cosmos. " -- Giles Sparrow - BBC Sky at Night Magazine"Vivid and tangible… Even a visit to the Moon, our closest and most familiar heavenly body, gave me fresh insights under Philip Plait’s guidance" -- Clive Cookson - Financial Times"Phil Plait takes us to nearby worlds and star systems far, far away, where we do plenty of exploration, a bit of astronomical science, and a lot of marveling. But it’s the descriptions of your spaceships and suits that will keep you strapped in and reading on. His flights of science fiction fantasy are scientific—and absolutely spectacular. Enjoy the rides." -- Bill Nye, CEO, The Planetary Society"A rollicking, wondrous, and awe-inspiring introduction to the universe. Phil Plait’s writing transports us to other worlds and in the process helps us to appreciate our own world." -- John Green, author of The Fault in Our Stars and The Anthropocene Reviewed"Plait takes us on a cosmic journey—a vivid guidebook for space tourists in the distant future." -- Clive Cookson - Financial Times

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Book SynopsisNonlinear dynamo theory is central to understanding the magnetic structures of planets, stars and galaxies. In chapters contributed by some of the leading scientists in the field, this text explores some of the recent advances in the field. Both kinetic and dynamic approaches to the subject are considered, including fast dynamos, topological methods in dynamo theory, physics of the solar cycle and the fundamentals of mean field dynamo. Advances in Nonlinear Dynamos is ideal for graduate students and researchers in theoretical astrophysics and applied mathematics, particularly those interested in cosmic magnetism and related topics, such as turbulence, convection, and more general nonlinear physics.Table of ContentsThe Field, the Mean and the Meaning. Fast Dynamos. On the Theory of Convection in the Earth's Core. Dynamo Action of Magnetostropic Waves. Magnetic Flux Tubes and the Dynamo Problem. Physics of the Solar Cycle. Highly Supercritical Convection in Strong Magnetic Fields. Thin Aspect Ratio Alpha-Omega-Dynamos in Galactic Disks and Stellar Shells. Computational Aspects of Astrophysical MHD and Turbulence. Topological Quantities in Magnetohydrodynamics.

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Book SynopsisFrom the big bang to black holes, from dark matter to dark energy, from the origins of the universe to its ultimate destiny, The Edge of the Sky tells the story of the most important discoveries and mysteries in modern cosmology,with a twist. The book''s lexicon is limited to the thousand most common words in the English language, excluding physics , energy , galaxy , or even universe . Through the eyes of a fictional scientist (Student-People) hunting for dark matter with one of the biggest telescopes (Big-Seers) on Earth (Home-World), cosmologist Roberto Trotta explores the most important ideas about our universe (All-there-is) in language simple enough for anyone to understand.A unique blend of literary experimentation and science popularization, this delightful book is a perfect gift for any aspiring astronomer. The Edge of the Sky tells the story of the universe on a human scale, and the result is out of this world.Trade Review"A delightful little gem for adults and children alike that leads you on a unique journey with its hypnotic, disarming prose. There are many books that attempt to creatively explain the universe in simple terms; this is one of the few that succeeds." --Bruce Bassett, Head of Cosmology at the African Institute of Mathematical Sciences and Professor of Applied Mathematics at the University of Cape Town, and author of Introducing Relativity "The Edge of the Sky ranges from exoplanets, through dark matter and dark energy and even supersymmetry... without any technical words. Speaking as someone who works on the "Big Ring" in the "city in a land full of safe places to put your money in": this is big fun, and amazing that so much can be said in so few words." --Jonathan Butterworth, Professor of Physics, University College London "The Edge of the Sky is a highly original book, which explains the foundations and the latest discoveries and ideas in astronomy: from planets and life elsewhere in the universe to dark energy and the multiverse. Roberto Trotta, a leading cosmologist from Imperial College London, has managed to achieve this by only using fewer than the 1,000 most common words of the English language. This is an inspiring book for everyone." --Ofer Lahav, Perren Professor of Astronomy, University College London "Cosmology and astrophysics are confusing at the best of times. But, against all the quantum odds, Dr. Roberto Trotta has managed to explain the topics using just 1,000 unique words. Readers of The Edge Of The Sky will be treated to a delightful, poetic journey into our world, other worlds and beyond without ever feeling like their vocabulary is holding them back. And yet that is not this book's greatest achievement. More impressive than the linguistic poetry and more profound that the hard science herein is the overwhelming sense of awe and wonder this book gifts the reader. This book will appeal to any adult who as eight year child looked up to the stars and wondered about the universe. Best of all, the eight year olds of today don't have to wait until they are adults to discover it for themselves." --Stephen Follows, Writer and Film Producer "Cosmology and astrophysics are confusing at the best of times. But, against all the quantum odds, Dr. Roberto Trotta has managed to explain the topics using just 1,000 unique words. Readers of The Edge Of The Sky will be treated to a delightful, poetic journey into our world, other worlds and beyond without ever feeling like their vocabulary is holding them back. And yet that is not this book's greatest achievement. More impressive than the linguistic poetry and more profound that the hard science herein is the overwhelming sense of awe and wonder this book gifts the reader. This book will appeal to any adult who as eight year child looked up to the stars and wondered about the universe. Best of all, the eight year olds of today don't have to wait until they are adults to discover it for themselves." --Stephen Follows, Writer and Film Producer "Jargon is a perpetual problem in communicating frontier science to a general audience: everyday specialists are so immersed in their specialized argot that we cease to be aware of the barrier it creates. I therefore applaud this attempt to describe the current state of cosmology in the most stripped-down language possible. The result is transparent, and also full of marvelously vivid turns of phrase, such as "Mr. Einstein's Dark Push." Definitely an original and distinctive addition to the literature in this area." --John Peacock FRS, Professor of Cosmology, University of Edinburgh "A tale as beautiful as the great spiritual stories - with the difference that this one is built on a solid foundation of fact." --David J Hand, Emeritus Professor of Mathematics, Imperial College London, and author of The Improbability Principle "A delightful little gem for adults and children alike that leads you on a unique journey with its hypnotic, disarming prose. There are many books that attempt to creatively explain the universe in simple terms; this is one of the few that succeeds." --Bruce Bassett, Head of Cosmology at the African Institute of Mathematical Sciences and Professor of Applied Mathematics at the University of Cape Town, and author of Introducing Relativity "Never before did we know so much about our universe, the All-There-Is. But are we getting any closer to understanding essential components of its true nature, dark matter and dark energy, which dominate by far over the visible, familiar matter? With rare candor and true learning, Roberto Trotta takes us on an intimate adventure in search of possible answers, as he charts the story of our universe from a tiny fraction of a second after the Big Bang to the present - while conveying at the same time the very human, at once exhilarating and humbling experience of this search. All this by using merely seven hundred and seven out of the thousand most common words of the English language, charmingly arranged to shake off the familiar, leaving us to marvel at our Home-World and at the mysteries that lie beyond its edge." --Laura Baudis, Professor of Physics, University of Zurich "Roberto Trotta's clever metaphors illuminate dark matter and dark energy. This book is a delightful, poetic, and informative read about all there is in the Universe." --Edward Frenkel, Professor of Mathematics, University of California, Berkeley, and author of Love and Math "The Edge of the Sky is an enthralling read that turns on its head the conventional (and in my view thoroughly misguided) wisdom that complicated scientific ideas can only be described using complicated language. Roberto Trotta takes the reader on a fascinating and entertaining journey through the very latest discoveries in astrophysics and cosmology, using only the 1000 most common English words, but never compromising on the clarity and detail of his scientific descriptions. The Edge of the Sky captures with child-like wonder the mysteries of the cosmos in language accessible to everyone, making it eminently suitable for children of all ages!" --Martin Hendry, Professor of Astrophysics, University of Glasgow "A wonder-full not-afraid story-telling try-it-and-see, about big-sky-study of today with only the ten-hundred most used words. Very not-usual, most good. Fun, too. Buy now!" --Ian Stewart, Emeritus Professor of Mathematics at the University of Warwick, and author of Visions of Infinity "A simplified but by no means simplistic introduction to modern cosmology and physics -- the flagship sciences of the 'All-There-Is.'... An entertaining exercise...for those student-people who like to ponder the All-There-Is while testing the always-inadequate limits of language." --Kirkus Reviews "Trotta's deft word choices quickly draw the reader into a surprisingly vivid alternate reality where student-persons (scientists) strive to pierce the mysteries of the All-There-Is: the universe... [T]he spare writing is elegant, even poetic. Literary experiments tend either to work or to flail with awkwardness; in Trotta's hands, this beautifully written book, with its limited vocabulary, soars." --Publishers Weekly, starred review "[A] surprisingly clear, and often poetic, primer on such complicated topics as the big bang, dark energy and the possibility of multiverses." --Scientific American "[A] poetic primer on the universe... The Edge of the Sky: All You Need to Know About the All-There-Is is one part children's book for grownups, one part imaginative exercise in economical yet lyrical language, and wholly wonderful." --Brain Pickings "Our Universe is described by only six numbers. In this entertaining and enjoyable book, Trotta recounts our knowledge of the cosmos with only the most 700-odd used words in the English dictionary. His extremely original approach conveys all the information with the most minimalistic use of language. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in learning about the latest discoveries about our Universe within the framework of an "avant-garde" and experimental writing style." --Raul Jimenez, Professor of Theoretical Physics and Astrophysics, University of Barcelona "How many different chords must you know before you can appreciate a symphony? How many different brush strokes must you master before you can appreciate a painting? How many different words do you need to use to appreciate the wonders of the universe? Roberto Trotta claims just 1,000, and bravely put pen to paper to try and prove it in this enjoyable short volume." --Lawrence M. Krauss, Foundation Professor and Director of the Origins Project at Arizona State University, and the author A Universe from Nothing and The Physics of Star Trek. "Our Universe is described by only six numbers. In this entertaining and enjoyable book, Trotta recounts our knowledge of the cosmos with only the most 700-odd used words in the English dictionary. His extremely original approach conveys all the information with the most minimalistic use of language. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in learning about the latest discoveries about our Universe within the framework of an "avant-garde" and experimental writing style." --Raul Jimenez, Professor of Theoretical Physics and Astrophysics, University of Barcelona "How many different chords must you know before you can appreciate a symphony? How many different brush strokes must you master before you can appreciate a painting? How many different words do you need to use to appreciate the wonders of the universe? Roberto Trotta claims just 1,000, and bravely put pen to paper to try and prove it in this enjoyable short volume." --Lawrence M. Krauss, Foundation Professor and Director of the Origins Project at Arizona State University, and the author A Universe from Nothing and The Physics of Star Trek "The extraordinary story of the Universe and our journey to understand it is not an easy one to tell to the general public. But because it is the story that binds us all together, it is important to tell it in myriad ways to reach as many people as possible. The Edge of the Sky is an inventive, enjoyable and thought-provoking contribution to that effort." --Nature "The Edge of the Sky... is probably the strangest and most poetic popular science book I've ever read. [Trotta] limits himself to using the 1,000 most common words in English... the effect is to produce a strangely hypnotic, poetic quality that reminded me of Longfellow attempting a science prose poem." --Brian Clegg, Huffington Post blog "A remarkable feat."--Vocabulary.com "If you are puzzled by the reports from the telescopes (Far-Seers) moving through space finding new things, then this book will satisfy the scientist (Student-Person) in you."--Roanoke Times "This charmingly accessible book is ideal for someone just dipping a toe into astrophysics and cosmology for the first time, with an interesting gimmick that lends his prose the flavor of folklore or myth."--Jennifer Ouellette, Scientif American's Cocktail Party Physics blog

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Book SynopsisAmong the most fascinating and rapidly developing areas in modem physics is the study of cosmological phenomena such as black holes, the cosmic microwave background, and the inflationary nature of the universe.Table of ContentsQuantum Theory and Path Integrals. Quantum Field Theory. Gauge Theories. Quantum Statistical Mechanics. Classical Gravity. Black Hole Evaporation. The Inflationary Universe. Quantum Cosmology. Appendices. References. Index.

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Book SynopsisIn astrophysics, stellar systems or galaxies can be thought of as individual "particles". High power computers are being developed to handle these problems. This book describes the structure, performance and applications of the world's most advanced such computer, developed in Tokyo.Trade Review"It is an excellent summary text of the GRAPE systems and what they have achieved but not such a good introduction to scientific simulations with special-purpose computers in a wider context." (The Observatory Magazine, Vol. 119, No. 1149, April 1999)Table of ContentsThe Evolution of General-Purpose Computers. Overview of Special-Purpose Systems. The GRAPE Systems. Software. Science by Special-Purpose Systems. The Future of Special-Purpose Computers. References. Index.

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Book SynopsisThis authoritative volume was the first to present a comprehensive and up-to-date review of our new understanding of accretion disks around black holes. It presents review papers from leading world authorities who gathered at an international conference in Reykjavik, Iceland. It will be of key interest to graduate students and researchers in astrophysics and theoretical physics.Trade ReviewReview of the hardback: '… the editors should be congratulated on assembling a collection of high-quality articles'. Roger Blandford, The ObservatoryTable of ContentsPart I. Observations of Black Holes: 1. Black holes in our Galaxy: observations P. Charles; 2. Black holes in Active Galactic Nuclei: observations G. M. Madejski; Part II. Physics Close to a Black Hole: 3. Physics of black holes I. D. Novikov; 4. Physics of black hole accretion M. A. Abramowicz; Part III. Turbulence, Viscosity: 5. Disc turbulence and viscosity A. Brandenburg; Part IV. Radiative Processes: 6. The role of electron-positron pairs in accretion flows G. Björnsson; 7. Accretion disc-corona models and X/Y-ray spectra of accreting black holes J. Poutanen; 8. Emission lines: signatures of relativistic rotation A. C. Fabian; Part V. Accretion Discs: 9. Spectral tests of models for accretion disks around black holes J. H. Krolik; 10. Advection-dominated accretion around black holes R. Narayan, R. Mahadevan and E. Quataert; 11. Accretion disc instabilities and advection dominated accretion flows J.-P. Lasota; 12. Magnetic field and multi-phase gas in AGN A. Celotti and M. J. Rees; Part V. Discs in Binary Black Holes: 13. Supermassive binary black holes in galaxies P. Artymowicz; Part VI. Stability of Accretion Discs: 14. Large scale perturbation of an accretion disc by a black hole binary companion J. C. B. Papaloizou, C. Terquem and D. N. C. Lin; 15. Stable oscillations of black hole accretion discs M. Nowak and D. Lehr; Part VI. Coherant Structures: 16. Spotted discs A. Bracco, A. Provenzale, E. A. Spiegel and P. Yecko; Self-organized critically in accretion discs P. Wiita and Y. Xiong; Summary: old and new advances in black hole accretion disc theory R. Svensson.

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Book SynopsisOriginally published in 1982, this collection of essays provides an integrated overview of the application of nuclear science to astronomy. The book discusses, among other topics, the abundances of the nuclear and chemical species on the Earth and the Moon, in meteorites, in the stars, and in interstellar space.Table of ContentsList of contributors; Preface; 1. Two decades of collaboration with Willy Fowler Fred Hoyle; 2. Nucleosynthesis in galaxies E. M. Burbidge and G. R. Burbidge; 3. Elemental and nuclidic abundances in the solar system A. G. W. Cameron; 4. A comparison of stellar observations and the theory of nucleosynthesis Jesse L. Greenstein; 5. Improving the reliability of experimental atomic transition probabilities Ward Whaling; 6. Some short-lived nuclides in the early solar system - a connection with the placental ISM G. J. Wasserburg and D. A. Papanastassiou; 7. Meteorite actinide chemistry and cosmochronology D. S. Burnett, M. I. Stapanian and J. H. Jones; 8. Solar power R. W. Kavanagh; 9. Hydrogen burning in massive stars W. S. Rodney and C. Rolfs; 10. Nuclear reactions in highly evolved stars C. A. Barnes; 11. The rate of the 12C(α, γ)16O reaction in stellar helium burning T. A. Tombrello, S. E. Koonin and B. A. Flanders; 12. An account of the development of the solar neutrino problem John N. Bahcall and Raymond Davis Jr; 13. 3He, red dwarfs, and our next trillion years E. E. Salpeter; 14. The s-process R. K. Ulrich; 15. The r-process and nucleocosmochronology David N. Schramm; 16. The origin of the light elements Jean Audouze and Hubert Reeves; 17. Nucleosynthesis in two 25 M stars of different population S. E. Woosley and Thomas A. Weaver; 18. Cosmic radioactivity: a gamma-ray search for the origins of atomic nuclei Donald D. Clayton; 19. On the nature of supernovae W. D. Arnett; 20. Supernova theory H. A. Bethe; 21. Nuclear theory of novae James W. Truran; 22. Free and bound quarks - accelerators and the early universe Robert V. Wagoner; 23. Particle physics and cosmology Gary Steigman; Publications and research papers of William A. Fowler; Author index; Subject index.

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Book SynopsisThis well-established textbook gives a general but comprehensive introduction to positional astronomy. Originally based on the author's lecture courses at Cambridge University, it is intended primarily for undergraduates, but, due to its comprehensive nature, it is a very useful reference text for research workers in many branches of astronomy and space physics. The author considers the night sky as the celestial sphere and powerfully exploits the methods of spherical geometry. Most problems in which the precise determination of a heavenly body's position in the sky is important are considered in theoretical detail, and the necessary formulae are derived to a precision that is sufficient for all but the most specialist purposes. The present revision has ensured that the terminology and treatment correspond precisely to current astronomical practice. A guiding principle has been to re-establish compatibility with the Astronomical Ephemeris and, to a lesser extent, with the fuller explanTable of Contents1. Spherical trigonometry; 2. The celestial sphere; 3. Refraction; 4. The meridian circle; 5. Planetary motions; 6. Time; 7. Planetary phenomena and heliographic co-ordinates; 8. Aberration; 9. Parallax; 10. Precession and nutation; 11. The proper motions of the stars; 12. Astronomical photography; 13. Determination of position at sea; 14. Binary star orbits; 15. Occulations and eclipses; Appendix 1. The method of dependences; Appendix 2. Stellar magnitudes; Appendix 3. The coelostat; Appendix A. Astronomical constants; Appendix B. Dimensions of the sun, moon and planets; Appendix C. Mean elements of the planetary orbits for the epoch 1975 January 0.5 E.T.; Appendix D. Elements and dimensions of the satellites; Appendix E. Ephemeris and universal time.

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Book SynopsisAimed at students and researchers entering the field, this pedagogical introduction to numerical relativity will also interest scientists seeking a broad survey of its challenges and achievements. Assuming only a basic knowledge of classical general relativity, the book develops the mathematical formalism from first principles, and then highlights some of the pioneering simulations involving black holes and neutron stars, gravitational collapse and gravitational waves. The book contains 300 exercises to help readers master new material as it is presented. Numerous illustrations, many in color, assist in visualizing new geometric concepts and highlighting the results of computer simulations. Summary boxes encapsulate some of the most important results for quick reference. Applications covered include calculations of coalescing binary black holes and binary neutron stars, rotating stars, colliding star clusters, gravitational and magnetorotational collapse, critical phenomena, the generaTrade Review'Numerical relativity has come of age in the last few years, and Baumgarte and Shapiro have produced the first textbook on the subject. And what a book this is! Sufficiently complete to be an encyclopedia, yet accessible enough to be a genuine learning manual, the book is exceedingly well written. It covers virtually all aspects of numerical relativity, from formalism to the most modern application, and it is replete with beautiful and helpful diagrams. The book will serve as a useful reference to the researcher, and a source of enlightenment to many a student.' Eric Poisson, University of Guelph'Numerical relativity has come of age with a number of recent breakthroughs. Two leading experts give a lucid as well as richly detailed account building a bridge from the basics to current research - highly recommended.' Bernd Brügmann, Friedrich-Schiller-Universität'Over the last five years, there have been impressive advances in numerical relativity. It has now become a central area in the fast growing field of gravitational wave physics. These tools have played an important role also in the theory of critical phenomena associated with gravitational collapse, loop quantum cosmology and the discussion of quantum black holes and black branes. The book by Baumgarte and Shapiro provides an excellent introduction to the subject covering both, mathematical aspects and numerical techniques. The authors are world leaders in numerical relativity and their contributions have shaped neutron star simulations, the new frontier of this field. This book will soon become the standard advanced text for younger researchers entering the field and will also serve as the authoritative reference for senior researchers in numerical relativity and neighboring fields.' Abhay Ashtekhar, Director, Institute for Gravitation and the Cosmos, Pennsylvania State University'Quiescent black holes are well understood, but until recently nobody could calculate how they behave when they collide with each other, or are in the process of formation. Recent breakthroughs make such computations possible - an advance that is crucially important for understanding galactic nuclei and gravitational waves. Baumgarte and Shapiro are established leaders in this subject. Their book is a timely contribution to the literature, and the ideal primer for researchers newly attracted to the burgeoning field of computational relativity.' Martin Rees, Astronomer Royal and Master of Trinity College, Cambridge' … a well-written overview that includes a brief introduction to general relativity … and tips on matter sources of a gravitational field … the authors aim to make Numerical Relativity useful as a graduate-level textbook and not just a reference. That feature, and the text's coverage of neutron stars, distinguishes it from the other comprehensive treatments of the subject … It is difficult to imagine that a book covering a field at the intersection of multiple disciplines could please all possible audiences. Nonetheless, Numerical Relativity hits the mark in its quite comprehensive coverage. It will be useful for practitioners in the field and especially to graduate students wishing to join them in this active and exciting area of research.' Physics Today'… an interesting and valuable contribution to the literature on this subject.' Cern CourierTable of ContentsPreface; Suggestions for using this book; 1. General relativity preliminaries; 2. The 3+1 decomposition of Einstein's equations; 3. Constructing initial data; 4. Choosing coordinates: the lapse and shift; 5. Matter sources; 6. Numerical methods; 7. Locating black hole horizons; 8. Spherically symmetric spacetimes; 9. Gravitational waves; 10. Collapse of collisionless clusters in axisymmetry; 11. Recasting the evolution equations; 12. Binary black hole initial data; 13. Binary black hole evolution; 14. Rotating stars; 15. Binary neutron star initial data; 16. Binary neutron star evolution; 17. Binary black hole-neutron stars: initial data and evolution; 18. Epilogue; Appendixes; References; Index.

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Book SynopsisIntroducing the theoretical ideas, observational methods and results, this textbook is a thorough introduction to the exciting field of dark energy. Ideally suited to graduate courses on dark energy, it contains problems with full solutions. Any calculations are worked through step-by-step.Trade Review'… tightly-packed, of a high standard, making appreciable demands upon the reader, student and researcher … [this book] succeeds in its purpose of bringing the reader closer to an appreciation of the wonders and the complexities that cosmology sets out to elucidate.' Contemporary Physics'One strength of Amendola and Tsujikawa's book is the level of detail it provides on dark energy models … comprehensive.' Joshua Frieman, Physics TodayTable of Contents1. Overview; 2. Expansion history of the universe; 3. Correlation function and power spectrum; 4. Basics of cosmological perturbation theory; 5. Observational evidence of dark energy; 6. Cosmological constant; 7. Dark energy as a modified form of matter I: quintessence; 8. Dark energy as a modified form of matter II; 9. Dark energy as a modification of gravity; 10. Cosmic acceleration without dark energy; 11. Dark energy and linear cosmological perturbations; 12. Non-linear cosmological perturbations; 13. Statistical methods in cosmology; 14. Future observational constraints on the nature of dark energy; 15. Conclusion and outlook; 16. Answers to the problems; 17. Mathematical appendix; Index.

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Book SynopsisThis volume covers all aspects of cosmology and extragalactic astronomy at an advanced level. Topics are developed in a contemporary fashion, with emphasis on currently active research areas. Containing over one hundred exercises, this text is invaluable for researchers and graduate students of extragalactic astronomy, astrophysics and theoretical physics.Trade Review'The textbook develops all aspects of extragalactic astronomy and cosmology in a detailed and pedagogical way and will be invaluable to researchers and graduate students …'. OrionTable of Contents1. Overview: galaxies and cosmology; 2. Galactic structure and dynamics; 3. Friedmann model of the universe; 4. Thermal history of the universe; 5. Structure formation; 6. Cosmic microwave background radiation; 7. Formation of baryonic structures; 8. Active galactic nuclei; 9. Intergalactic medium and absorption systems; 10. Cosmological observations.

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Book SynopsisThis volume covers all aspects of cosmology and extragalactic astronomy at an advanced level. Topics are developed in a contemporary fashion, with emphasis on currently active research areas. Containing over one hundred exercises, this text is invaluable for researchers and graduate students of extragalactic astronomy, astrophysics and theoretical physics.Trade Review'The textbook develops all aspects of extragalactic astronomy and cosmology in a detailed and pedagogical way and will be invaluable to researchers and graduate students …'. OrionTable of Contents1. Overview: galaxies and cosmology; 2. Galactic structure and dynamics; 3. Friedmann model of the universe; 4. Thermal history of the universe; 5. Structure formation; 6. Cosmic microwave background radiation; 7. Formation of baryonic structures; 8. Active galactic nuclei; 9. Intergalactic medium and absorption systems; 10. Cosmological observations.

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Book SynopsisThis clear and authoritative book has been designed to help graduate students and researchers to develop a solid understanding of a wide range of physical processes. It can be used alone, or in conjunction with the accompanying two volumes (covering stars and stellar systems, and galaxies and cosmology, respectively).Trade Review'This welcome volume provides graduate students with an indispensable introduction to and reference on all the physical processes they will need to successfully tackle … research in astrophysics and cosmology.' Europe & AstronomyTable of ContentsPreface; 1. Order-of-magnitude astrophysics; 2. Dynamics; 3. Special relativity, electrodynamics and optics; 4. Basics of electromagnetic radiation; 5. Statistical mechanics; 6. Radiative processes; 7. Spectra; 8. Neutral fluids; 9. Plasma physics; 10. Gravitational dynamics; 11. General theory of relativity; 12. Basics of nuclear physics; Notes and References; Index.

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Book SynopsisHigh-energy astrophysics covers cosmic phenomena that occur under the most extreme physical conditions. This 2007 textbook is a self-contained, relevant exploration of this exciting field. Written for undergraduate students studying high-energy astrophysics, each chapter ends with exercises.Trade ReviewReview of the hardback: '… it makes an easy transition to the applications of physics to astrophysics … The book is well constructed and develops derivations and explanations that are presented in logical sequences of thought with an ease characteristic of few books of its kind …This is an excellent choice for the bookshelves of current and aspiring astrophysicists … Summing Up: Highly recommended.' Choice Reviews OnlineReview of the hardback: 'It could easily form the basis of more than one undergraduate course and should be required reading for anyone working in high-energy astrophysics. The style and layout are clear and all for a reasonable price. Highly recommended.' The ObservatoryReview of the hardback: '… In principle, this book contains everything a beginner in this topic needs to know … The text is written in a very coherent way, physics equations are explicitly derived, physics students will appreciate that. … The authors are not only internationally known for their contributions to high-energy astrophysics, they are also actively teaching at Jacobs University Bremen. This synergy guarantees a pedagogically well-thought-out textbook. It is highly recommended to all physics students that want to engage in high-energy astrophysics … It should not be missing from any library.' Dr Sylvio Klose, Thüringer State Observatory, TautenburgReview of the hardback: 'It should not be missing from any library.' Sterne und WeltraumTable of ContentsPreface; 1. Special relativity; 2. Gas processes; 3. Radiation processes; 4. Supernovae; 5. Neutron stars, pulsars and magnetars; 6. Compact binary systems; 7. Gamma-ray bursts; 8. Active galactic nuclei; Appendix A. Some recent high-energy astrophysics instruments; Appendix B. Physical constants; Appendix C. Distances; Appendix D. Luminosity, brightness, magnitude, colour; Index.

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Book SynopsisDescribing the processes in stars which produce the chemical elements for planets and life, this book shows how similar processes may be reproduced in laboratories using exotic beams, and how these results can be analyzed. The associated reaction program Fresco is described, and is available at www.cambridge.org/9780521856355.Trade Review"The effort of the authors, both highly regarded experts in their respective fields, is certainly to be lauded and I am confident that the book will become essential reading for the experienced researchers in the field." Marialuisa Aliotta, The ObservatoryTable of Contents1. Nuclei in the cosmos page; 2. Reactions of nuclei; 3. Scattering theory; 4. Reaction mechanisms; 5. Connecting structure with reactions; 6. Solving the equations; 7. Approximate solutions; 8. Breakup; 9. Three-body nuclei; 10. R-matrix phenomenology; 11. Compound nucleus averaging; 12. Stellar reaction rates and networks; 13. Connection to experiments; 14. Spectroscopy; 15. Fitting data; Appendixes; References; Index.

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Book SynopsisThe rapidly expanding field of galaxy formation lies at the interface between astronomy, particle physics, and cosmology. Covering diverse topics from these disciplines, all of which are needed to understand how galaxies form and evolve, this book is ideal for researchers entering the field. Individual chapters explore the evolution of the Universe as a whole and its particle and radiation content; linear and nonlinear growth of cosmic structure; processes affecting the gaseous and dark matter components of galaxies and their stellar populations; the formation of spiral and elliptical galaxies; central supermassive black holes and the activity associated with them; galaxy interactions; and the intergalactic medium. Emphasizing both observational and theoretical aspects, this book provides a coherent introduction for astronomers, cosmologists, and astroparticle physicists to the broad range of science underlying the formation and evolution of galaxies.Trade Review'Mo, van den Bosch, and White have written a comprehensive text on the modern subject of galaxy formation and evolution. The book is fully self-contained, covering the basic theory in depth, and including the essential background material on observations and the relevant theory from extragalactic astronomy, stellar astrophysics, and cosmology. It will serve as an indispensable reference for students and researchers alike, and is destined to become a classic in this field.' Robert C. Kennicutt, Jr, Plumian Professor of Astronomy and Experimental Philosophy, and Director, Institute of Astronomy, University of Cambridge'Unraveling the origin and growth of cosmic structures, from the simplicity of the Big Bang to the complexity of the modern Universe, is an unparalleled achievement of modern science. Written by renowned world experts, this book presents a clear, systematic and comprehensive exposition of the physics and mathematics underlying these breathtaking advances. It is compulsory reading not only for those aspiring to contribute to our growing understanding of the cosmos, but for all those who appreciate the beauty and power of contemporary physical science.' Carlos S. Frenk, Ogden Professor of Fundamental Physics, and Director, Institute for Computational Cosmology, Durham University'… an ideal introduction for anyone with a minimal background in astrophysics who wishes to enter the field of large-scale structure formation. … a comprehensive review of relevant topics …' Physics TodayTable of Contents1. Introduction; 2. Observational facts; 3. Cosmological background; 4. Cosmological perturbations; 5. Gravitational collapse and collisionless dynamics; 6. Probing the cosmic density field; 7. Formation and structure of dark matter halos; 8. Formation and evolution of gaseous halos; 9. Star formation in galaxies; 10. Stellar populations and chemical evolution; 11. Disk galaxies; 12. Galaxy interactions and transformations; 13. Elliptical galaxies; 14. Active galaxies; 15. Statistical properties of the galaxy population; 16. The intergalactic medium; Appendices; References; Index.

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Book SynopsisMagnetic fields permeate space and affect many major astrophysical phenomena, but they are often ignored due to their perceived complexity. This self-contained introduction to astrophysical magnetic fields provides both a comprehensive review of the current state of the subject and a critical discussion of the latest research. It presents our knowledge of magnetic fields from the Early Universe, their evolution in cosmic time through to their roles in present-day galaxies, galaxy clusters and the wider intergalactic medium, with attention given to both theory and observations. This volume also contains an extensive introduction into magnetohydrodynamics, numerous worked examples, observational and mathematical techniques and interpretations of the observations. Its review of our current knowledge, with an emphasis on results that are likely to form the basis for future progress, benefits a broad audience of advanced students and active researchers, including those from fields such as cTable of ContentsPreface. 1. Introduction; 2. Elements of magnetohydrodynamics; 3. Observational signatures of magnetic fields; 4. Polarization and depolarization; 5. The concept of hydromagnetic dynamo; 6. The fluctuation dynamo; 7. The mean-field dynamo; 8. The fluctuation and mean-field dynamos unified; 9. Seed magnetic fields; 10. Interstellar and intergalactic medium; 11. Kinematic dynamos in galaxies; 12. Non-linear mean-field galactic dynamos; 13. Theory and observations put together; 14. Magnetohydrodyanmics of galaxy clusters; 15. Magnetic fields in the early universe; 16. Signatures of primordial magnetic fields; References; Index.

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Book SynopsisCovering all aspects of gravitation in a contemporary style, this advanced textbook is ideal for graduate students and researchers. Its modular structure allows different sections to be combined to suit a variety of courses. There are more than 200 exercises and over 30 in-depth projects.Trade Review'This book is immensely impressive. It is full of insights and derivations that do not appear in other books. The serious student will appreciate the extensive coverage of advanced topics, notably of actions. One might say, the book is action-packed.' Andrew J. S. Hamilton, Professor of Astrophysics, University of Colorado, Boulder'… well written throughout … presents its material with admirable clarity and patience. It contains many topics that are not easily found in other relativity textbooks, at least not in the detail presented here … The book is a valuable contribution to the textbook literature on general relativity and will remain up-to-date for many years to come. It contains 225 exercises (without solutions), many of them highly original, and presents thirty projects that can be used to build a bridge between the exercise level and research work at the level of a master thesis and beyond. It is certainly not possible to cover the whole material in a 1-year course, but its modular structure enables the lecturer to make the selection that is needed for his or her purpose. I plan to use and test the book myself in my next course on relativity and cosmology.' General Relativity and Gravitation'Every topic is extremely well referenced and current … This book is likely to be an essential reference for any galaxy-formation-research student or professor. In the coming years I can see myself dipping into this treasure trove on a very regular basis.' Shaun Cole, The Observatory'Within minutes of opening the rich, heavy, full, yet succinctly written 728 pages I realised that this is a new and personal view on general relativity, which leads beyond many excellent standard textbooks and offers a challenging training ground for students with its original exercises and study topics … [I] highly recommend it to anyone interested in general relativity and related fields because it offers a modern update … if you are a bookworm like me, you must have it, because it is a great read from start to finish.' Cern Courier'The book is well written throughout and presents its material with admirable clarity and patience. It contains many topics that are not easily found in other relativity textbooks, at least not in the detail presented here … The book is a valuable contribution to the textbook literature on general relativity and will remain up-to-date for many years to come … I plan to use and test the book myself in my next course on relativity and cosmology.' Institut für Theoretische Physik'… a comprehensive textbook containing both the fundamental and the frontier aspects of gravitation theory. The book is a real pleasure to read by a reader with basic knowledge in mathematics and physics.' Contemporary PhysicsTable of Contents1. Special relativity; 2. Scalar and electromagnetic fields in special relativity; 3. Gravity and spacetime geometry: the inescapable connection; 4. Metric tensor, geodesics and covariant derivative; 5. Curvature of spacetime; 6. Einstein's field equations and gravitational dynamics; 7. Spherically symmetric geometry; 8. Black holes; 9. Gravitational waves; 10. Relativistic cosmology; 11. Differential forms and exterior calculus; 12. Hamiltonian structure of general relativity; 13. Evolution of cosmological perturbations; 14. Quantum field theory in curved spacetime; 15. Gravity in higher and lower dimensions; 16. Gravity as an emergent phenomenon; Notes; Index.

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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Book SynopsisSTEPHEN HAWKING was a brilliant theoretical physicist and is generally considered to have been one of the world's greatest thinkers. He held the position of Lucasian Professor of Mathematics at the University of Cambridge for thirty years and is the author of A Brief History of Time which was an international bestseller. His other books for the general reader include A Briefer History of Time, the essay collection Black Holes and Baby Universe, The Universe in a Nutshell, The Grand Design, and Black Holes: The BBC Reith Lectures.He died on 14 March, 2018.Trade ReviewThis book marries a child's wonder to a genius's intellect. We journey into Hawking's universe, while marvelling at his mind * The Sunday Times *A Brief History of Time:'It is the publishing sensation of the past decade' * Spectator *

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Book SynopsisThe detection of gravitational waves—ripples in spacetime—has already been called the scientific coup of this century. Govert Schilling recounts the struggles that threatened to derail the quest and describes the detector’s astounding precision, weaving far-reaching discoveries about the universe into a gripping story of ambition and perseverance.Trade ReviewIn a sweeping new book, Ripples in Spacetime: Einstein, Gravitational Waves, and the Future of Astronomy, prolific science writer Govert Schilling has achieved the fascinating trifecta of historical and scientific accuracy, a grand sense of wonder and curiosity, and brilliantly accessible storytelling…Ripples in Spacetime goes far beyond the gravitational wave story you've heard over the past few years…It belongs on the shelf of anyone interested in learning the scientific, historical, and personal stories behind some of the most incredible scientific advances of the 21st century. As our scientific progress continues, this book will serve as a reminder of how far we’ve already come, how we got there, and what we’re looking forward to with our most hopeful ambitions. -- Ethan Siegel * Forbes *A succinct, accessible, and remarkably timely survey of gravitational-wave astronomy as it developed over the past century…This book is a rare find…The book’s remarkable breadth and accessibility should make it the first piece of reading material for anyone—from high school students to policymakers—with an interest in gravitational waves…Ripples in Spacetime sets itself apart by putting the entire field into perspective—past, present, and future. It conveys a sense of awe about a century of scientific investment and achievement and a sense of excitement for what’s to come. -- Richard O’Shaughnessy * Physics Today *Schilling gives us a lively and readable account of the [gravitational] waves’ discovery... Schilling underlines that this discovery is the opening of a new window on the universe, the beginning of a new branch of science. Astronomers will no longer be limited to observing space through the waves of electricity and magnetism (for example, visible light) entering telescopes, but will be able to observe it through waves of gravity. Galileo would have been amazed. -- Graham Farmelo * The Guardian *A detailed account of the quest to detect gravitational waves. -- James Ryerson * New York Times Book Review *Ripples in Spacetime provides a comprehensive and approachable guide to a complex subject. -- Monica Young * Sky & Telescope *[Ripples in Spacetime] explains complex ideas clearly and entertainingly…It details the personalities, rivalries, collaborations, controversies, setbacks and successes of the century-long quest to test Einstein’s theories. Bang up to date, the book describes science in progress and as a process: how ideas are developed and discoveries made and rejected or confirmed. The best part for me was the detail the book goes into about the first detection and the meticulous protocols in place to scrutinize and eliminate every possible error. Schilling also looks ahead to what we can expect in this whole new field of astronomy. This is a book for everyone who was as excited as I was when the [Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory] discovery first broke, but also for anyone who wants to know what all the fuss was about. -- Jenny Winder * BBC Sky at Night Magazine *In September 2015, a new frontier in astronomy beckoned with the first direct detection of gravitational waves, confirming Albert Einstein's prediction almost a century before. Govert Schilling's deliciously nerdy grand tour takes us through compelling backstory, current research, and future expectations. -- Barbara Kiser * Nature *[Ripples in Spacetime] offers the reader a journey that goes beyond its title, exploring and connecting topics such as the cosmic-microwave background and its polarization, radioastronomy and pulsars, supernovae, primordial inflation, gamma-ray bursts and even dark energy… The book gives an interesting (and sometimes surprising) glimpse into the lives, aspirations and mutual interactions of the scientific pioneers in the field of gravitational waves. -- Guillermo Ballestero * CERN Courier *A fascinating story of astronomy…Schilling walks readers through a lucid history of the universe, of general relativity, and of the bumpy search for Einstein’s last major unconfirmed prediction: the existence of gravitational waves…Schilling delivers a lively, expert, mostly comprehensible account, equal parts politics, personality, and science, of the search that ended two years ago…Schilling emphasizes that this is not simply another feather in Einstein’s cap, but a valuable new tool. The early universe was opaque to radiation until 380,000 years after the Big Bang, but gravity waves poured out from almost the beginning, so a new field of ‘gravitational wave astronomy’ can look back almost to the birth of the cosmos. An exciting history of the second great breakthrough of 21st-century physics. * Kirkus Reviews (starred review) *In this elegant and captivating book Govert Schilling takes us by the hand through a century of scientific adventures to one of the biggest discoveries of history. -- Robbert Dijkgraaf, Director and Leon Levy Professor, Institute for Advanced StudyI read with great pleasure this friendly book. The placement of the detection of gravitational waves in the greater history of astronomy and physics is nicely done, and readers not yet familiar with many of the concepts will come away from the book having really learned some of the physics as well as having a sense of what real science and real scientists are like. The scope and organization makes it entertaining and leaves room for surprises. -- David Shoemaker, Spokesperson, LIGO Scientific Collaboration and Senior Research Scientist, MIT Kavli InstituteEngaging. -- Manjit Kumar * New Statesman *Govert’s blend of storytelling, interviews, science, and history creates a fantastic read, and for anyone curious about the development of LIGO and what the future holds, you couldn’t ask for a better story. -- Ethan Siegel * Forbes *

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Book SynopsisTaxi drivers love to talk, and when astrobiologist Charles Cockell is their passenger, they love to talk about aliens. This humorous, insightful collection gathers essays inspired by conversations with cabbies, ranging over the possible nature of alien societies, the inevitability of life, and links between environmentalism and space exploration.Trade ReviewConversations with cab drivers lead to discussions about space exploration in this fun outing from astrobiologist Cockell…He does a great job blending cutting-edge science with philosophical considerations. This is a joy to read. * Publishers Weekly (starred review) *Timely…Cockell makes us consider a gamut of new possibilities that boggle the mind. -- Bruce Dorminey * Forbes *The single most interesting space book I’ve seen this year…I remain very grateful for Taxi from Another Planet, a book I will be returning to and recommending to others. -- John Wilson * National Review *While Cockell gives an insider, science-based understanding of space and its exploration, he’s not shy in offering his opinions, such as there being no Planet B to flee to after we finish wreaking havoc on this one. Far from being at odds, he persuasively argues, environmentalism at home and exploration in space are natural allies working to understand and protect biological life. -- Adrienne Ross Scanlan * New York Journal of Books *Cockell gives readers a good, basic (and easy-to-understand) refresher course on life on Earth as he prepares to discuss life outside Earth…While this is surely a book for adults, older teens who study the skies and make plans for a home on the moon will appreciate it as well. -- Terri Schlichenmeyer * The Daily News *Takes the reader on an engaging tour of leading topics and questions in astrobiology through a series of imaginary conversations with taxi drivers. -- Ian Randall * Physics World *[Cockell] seeks to shed some light on such existential dilemmas from a refreshingly non-academic perspective…The book is both entertaining and informative in equal measure, always thought-provoking, and is an illustration of the value of interrogating seemingly simple questions from a completely different viewpoint, sometimes leading to surprising new insights. -- Morgan Hollis * Nature Astronomy *An interesting and humorous approach to questions about the universe with relatively in-depth subject exploration. * Library Journal *If you’re intrigued by the concept of life beyond Earth and space exploration, then Taxi from Another Planet will be an interesting read for you. Inspired by conversations with drivers around the world, Cockell spins them into engaging chapters that bring together observations and ruminations about human history and scientific knowledge. -- Michelle Gardner * Technical Communication *The power of this fascinating book is that it explains a lot of science in simple terms, and offers plenty of food for thought. I recommend this book to science teachers and students, to public libraries and to historians. -- Christiaan Sterken * Journal of Astronomical Data *From human societies on Mars to cosmic microbes and alien worlds, this superbly intelligent, erudite book offers an intoxicating look at how the cutting edge of scientific thought on life’s status in the universe connects to all of us. Faced with the fascinating questions of taxi drivers from around the world, Cockell is a convivial and inspiring passenger. -- Caleb Scharf, author of The Ascent of InformationMost astronomers find it hard to respond to questions from the public without lapsing into jargon or technicalities, but Charles Cockell is a natural communicator. Taxi from Another Planet conveys an array of ideas—all fascinating, and some profound—with a light touch and utter clarity. Accessible to anyone curious about the cosmos. -- Martin Rees, coauthor of The End of AstronautsIn this unique book, Cockell takes us on a journey through astrobiology—one taxi ride at a time. Combining scientific inquiries with personal stories, Taxi from Another Planet is a fascinating conversation starter. -- Lisa Kaltenegger, Director of the Carl Sagan Institute, Cornell UniversityCab drivers spend mere minutes with their passengers, which motivates them to ask riders only the interesting questions: Could Martians be dangerous? Will talking to aliens be more enlightening than talking to a dog? Cockell’s answers from the backseat are clear and delightfully phrased in this informative and thoroughly entertaining book. -- Seth Shostak, author of Confessions of an Alien HunterThe ever curious and creative mind of Charles Cockell takes us on a ride that is both whimsical and thoroughly insightful. Science, society, and history are woven together throughout this delightful book, resembling the many intertwining streets of Cockell’s journeys, and ours. -- Kevin Peter Hand, author of Alien Oceans: The Search for Life in the Depths of Space

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Book SynopsisJacqueline Mitton and Simon Mitton offer the first biography of Vera Rubin, an astronomer who made vital contributions to our understanding of dark matter. An outstanding scientist herself, Rubin also championed women in science, by mentoring, advocating for hiring women faculty, disseminating their research, and recognizing their achievements.Trade ReviewA vivid biography of [a] trailblazing astronomer...The [Mittons] present an accessible and concise history of modern astrophysics alongside the biography, which brims with insight into Rubin's commitment to getting more women into astronomy and her deep fascination with the mysteries of the universe. Stargazers will be delighted by this spirited account. * Publishers Weekly (starred review) * A thoughtful and nuanced chronicle of the famed astronomer's life that neither overinflates nor diminishes the importance of her contributions...[A] remarkable portrait...[The Mittons] frame her story within a longer history of humanity's study of galaxies, offering readers a fresh perspective on the history of astronomy in the 20th century. -- Joanna Behrman * Science * By far the most comprehensive review of Vera Rubin's career and all the factors that shaped it. A must read. -- Sandra Faber, astronomer and University Professor, University of California Observatories In this enchanting and engaging biography, Jacqueline and Simon Mitton have captured Vera Rubin's exceptional life, unconventional career trajectory, and enduring scientific legacy. Rubin was an inspiring astronomer and human being whom I had the privilege of meeting and getting to know early in my career. This celebration of her work and life is most welcome and timely. -- Priyamvada Natarajan, astrophysicist and author of Mapping the Heavens This book is fascinating. We see Vera Rubin navigate a varied set of circumstances-in her family, in society, and in the scientific community-which culminated in a US National Observatory being named after her. It's a story that will keep you reading, eagerly, to the last page. -- Jay Pasachoff, astronomer and coauthor of The Cosmos: Astronomy in the New Millennium I will never forget the friendly, reassuring presence of Vera Rubin in the front row at my first presentation for the American Astronomical Society, when I was a graduate student. This superb book brings alive her grace and relentless study of the rotation curves of galaxies, as well as her push for women to succeed and excel in astronomy and astrophysics. This book firmly cements Rubin's place within the history of astronomy. -- Carolyn Collins Petersen, author of The Discovery of the Universe

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Book SynopsisAstronomers have recently discovered thousands of exotic planets that orbit stars throughout our Milky Way galaxy. With his characteristic wit and style, Donald Goldsmith shows how these observations have already broadened our planetary horizons, and tells us what may come next, including the ultimate discovery: life beyond our home planet.Trade ReviewIn terms of what’s out there, how we discovered it, and how that’s changed our view and understanding of the planets out there in the Universe, Exoplanets by Donald Goldsmith does a remarkable job of covering what we know, how we learned it, what it means and what comes next. We are closer than we’ve ever been for discovering the first evidence of life in another Solar System. Come learn where we are on that quest with this book. -- Ethan Siegel * Forbes *How do alien, faraway worlds reveal their existence to Earthlings? Let Donald Goldsmith count the ways. As an experienced astronomer and a gifted storyteller, he is the perfect person to chronicle the ongoing hunt for planets of other stars. Notwithstanding the grandeur of his subject—an age-old human question now become an active quest—Goldsmith treats the search for other worlds with wisdom, wit, and an often thrilling choice of words. -- Dava Sobel, author of The Glass UniverseWere you fortunate enough to have a favorite aunt, or a particularly great teacher, who could explain complicated ideas in a way that helped you understand them, and made you want to know more? That's the role Donald Goldsmith plays in his delightful new book. In the past few decades, scientists have discovered myriad worlds that are like and unlike those we are familiar with. Goldsmith brings the reader up close and personal, inviting us to explore many of these systems and their discoverers. He helps us understand what we know and what we have yet to uncover, how we came to be here, and what the chances are for life beyond Earth. -- Jill Tarter, Chair Emeritus for SETI Research, SETI InstituteFor centuries humans have speculated about worlds beyond our solar system and life beyond Earth. In just the last few decades astronomers have discovered that most stars have planets, and that many of these planets could be habitable. Goldsmith recounts this stunning transformation in our cosmic understanding in a book that is comprehensive yet concise, and that prepares readers for the breakthroughs to come, including—perhaps within our lifetime—the discovery of credible evidence that we are not alone. -- Richard Tresch Fienberg, Press Officer, American Astronomical Society[Goldsmith] recounts early efforts to detect planets outside our solar system and explains the breakthroughs in detection methods that enabled astronomers to find the first exoplanets. He also gives an informative account of where known exoplanets are and what they might be like, along with a tantalizing glimpse at what might come next for astronomers as they search beyond the solar system’s bounds. -- Melinda Baldwin * Physics Today *

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Book SynopsisFritz Zwicky was one of the most inventive and iconoclastic scientists of the twentieth century. Among other accomplishments, he was the first to infer the existence of dark matter. He also clashed with better-known peers and became a pariah in the scientific community. John Johnson, Jr.,’s biography brings this tempestuous maverick alive.Trade Review[An] engaging biography…Reveals a life that is far deeper and more nuanced than the caricature…A sympathetic reassessment of his overall legacy. * Wall Street Journal *A lively new biography…Johnson has written a book that explains the astronomical facts simply and clearly without using technical jargon. But the emphasis is on the human characters, not on the science. -- Freeman Dyson * New York Review of Books *[A] spirited biography…Johnson’s book is rich enough to inspire interesting meditations on research, idiosyncrasy—and reputation. * Nature *Of all the science biographies that came out in 2019, this one, about the legendary scientist Fritz Zwicky, was far and away my favorite…[A] gem of a book…If you enjoy biographies of scientists, particularly underappreciated ones, you'll want to pick this one up for sure. -- Ethan Siegel * Forbes *Interesting to read and provides an insight into a rich, complicated character and his engagement with the world he was part of. -- Chris North * BBC Sky at Night *A detailed and insightful biography. The story certainly captures both the way in which Zwicky liked to see himself and the way in which some leading physicists responded to him. Others, however, took offense and did their best to ignore the astronomer, both during his lifetime and afterwards—one of the reasons why he is largely forgotten today. -- Andrew Robinson * Physics World *A well-rounded biography of the brilliant, contrarian scientist…Stands as an evenhanded examination of a pugnacious and imaginative genius, and it should spark new interest in Zwicky. * Publishers Weekly *[An] excellent biography of Zwicky. -- Jeff Foust * Space Review *This is a fitting biography of one of the most brilliant, acerbic, and under-appreciated astrophysicists of the twentieth century. John Johnson has delved deeply into a rich and eventful life, and produced a rollicking account of how Fritz Zwicky split his time between picking fights with his colleagues and discovering amazing things about our universe. -- Sean Carroll, author of The Big Picture: On the Origins of Life, Meaning, and the Universe ItselfZwicky is everything a good science history book should be. With an eccentric and brilliant scientist at its heart, this book illuminates the very human nature at the center of all the best scientific discoveries. -- Deborah Blum, Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist and author of The Poisoner’s Handbook: Murder and the Birth of Forensic Medicine in Jazz Age New YorkThis book is absolutely marvelous—I really could not put it down. -- James Gunn, Princeton UniversityWell researched…An enjoyable read. -- Helge Kragh * Physics Today *Perhaps the most significant gadfly to inspire, annoy, challenge, and provoke astronomy in the 20th century…I ended my read through Johnson’s book glad that, from time to time, such mavericks come along to create a bit of intellectual chaos. -- David Stickland * The Observatory *

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Book SynopsisAre we alone in the universe? It is a captivating question, but one that historically eluded proper scientific investigation. The new discipline of astrobiology changes the game, introducing rigor to the quest for extraterrestrial life. Life in the Cosmos surveys the field, showing how cutting-edge research is closing in on the answers “out there.”Trade ReviewThe new go-to for astrobiology. Life in the Cosmos is a quantitative and encyclopedic tour de force for all topics related to the origin of life on Earth and life’s existence beyond. -- Sara Seager, author of The Smallest Lights in the UniverseAn instant classic. Lingam and Loeb’s brilliant Life in the Cosmos is a momentous scientific achievement. To anyone looking to dig deep into the exciting prospect of discovering extraterrestrial life, I say: Make space on your bookshelf. -- Michael J. Russell, University of TurinA book of sweeping vision. Lingam and Loeb offer detailed and insightful analysis of the challenges we face as we investigate the universal distribution of this unusual material we call life. A helpful and fascinating read. -- Charles Cockell, author of Astrobiology: Understanding Life in the UniverseAre we alone in the universe? Lingam and Loeb provide expert guidance to the many dimensions of this fundamental question—and, just maybe, how to answer it. -- Andrew H. Knoll, author of A Brief History of Earth: Four Billion Years in Eight ChaptersA remarkable and modern survey of how to search for life in the universe, from two of the boldest, most innovative thinkers in the field today. Impressively detailed, this book takes into account what we know about life on Earth to consider what we don’t know about life elsewhere. -- Jason Wright, Director, Penn State Extraterrestrial Intelligence CenterThis book discusses everything you ever wanted to know about life in the cosmos. Lingam and Loeb are the best guides for this truly breathtaking journey, providing masterful and comprehensive answers for everyone, from the scholar to the amateur stargazer. -- Dimitar Sasselov, author of The Life of Super-Earths: How the Hunt for Alien Worlds and Artificial Cells Will Revolutionize Life on Our PlanetThe search for intelligent alien life continues to motivate and inspire generations of scientists and the public alike…The authors separate themselves from other treatments of similar topics by focusing on ‘extraterrestrial technological intelligences’ rather than alien life more generally. * Nature Astronomy *Boldly goes where few academic books have gone before by seriously and open-mindedly considering the possibility of extraterrestrial technological intelligence on par with or far beyond humans…Chock-full of interesting topics and insights…A stellar achievement that deserves the undivided attention of readers who are ready to take a deep dive into astrobiology. * Inquisitive Biologist *An excellent primer on life on earth, from the very beginnings…Both incredibly wide-ranging and constantly fascinating. * Complete Review *

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Book SynopsisDiscusses some techniques used to obtain numerical solutions of the equations of motion for planets and satellites. This book also introduces the two-body problem and solves it by developing six integrals of the motion, starting from Newton's three laws of motion and his law of gravitation and then using vector algebra to develop the integrals.Trade Review"The book brings primarily a very good theoretical insight into modern problems of astrodynamics. Moreover, it brings even a survey of numerical methods to be used to solve practical orbital problems."--Space Science ReviewsTable of ContentsPreface1Background32The Two-Body Problem123Kepler's Laws314Methods of Computation405The f and g Functions586Two-Point Boundary Value Problems817Applications918Perturbation Theory1179Special Perturbation Methods14710Runge-Kutta Methods18411Types of Perturbations198Appendixes215A. Coordinate Transformations217B. Hyperbolic Motion225C. Conic Sections230D. Transfer-Angle Resolution233E. Stumpff Functions236F. Orbit Geometry239References243Index247

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Book SynopsisThe physics of neutrinos - uncharged elementary particles that are key to helping us better understand the nature of our universe. This title shows how studies of neutrinos produced by such phenomena as cosmic rays in the atmosphere and nuclear reactions in the solar interior to provide striking evidence that neutrinos have mass.Trade Review'This is a very useful book written by notable experts in the field. It covers all aspects of the theory, phenomenology, experiment, and astrophysical implications of neutrinos."—Paul Langacker, professor emeritus, University of Pennsylvania"This book provides a comprehensive snapshot of the current state of neutrino physics, and is a useful reference for particle physicists and astrophysicists who are interested in learning what has been going on in the field. All three authors have played a major role in advancing our understanding of neutrino physics, and are very well positioned to write a book on the subject."—André de Gouvêa, Northwestern UniversityTable of ContentsPreface xi 1 Introduction 1 2 Neutrino Basics 11 2.1 Dirac and Majorana Neutrinos 11 2.2 Neutrino Counting 12 2.3 Neutrinos from Weak Decays 14 2.4 Neutrino Cross Sections 16 2.5 Neutrino Detectors 24 2.6 Neutrino Beams 28 3 Neutrino Mixing and Oscillations 33 3.1 Vacuum Oscillations 33 3.2 Matter Effects on Oscillations 36 3.3 Solar Neutrino Oscillations 38 3.4 Long-baseline Oscillations through the Earth 41 3.5 Matter Effects for Sterile Neutrinos 42 3.6 Decoherence 43 4 Solar Neutrinos 45 4.1 Origin of Solar Neutrinos 45 4.2 Solar Neutrino Experiments 46 4.3 KamLAND 49 4.4 Solar/Reactor Neutrino Parameters 49 4.5 Flux-independent Tests 53 4.6 Future Experiments 56 4.7 Geoneutrinos 57 5 Atmospheric Neutrinos 59 5.1 Atmospheric Neutrino Experiments 59 5.2 Matter Effects for Atmospheric Neutrinos 63 5.3 Long-baseline Neutrino Experiments 64 6 Global Three-neutrino Fits 68 7 Absolute Neutrino Mass 71 7.1 Beta Decay 71 7.2 Cosmological Limits 72 7.3 Neutrinoless Double-beta Decay 73 8 Long-baseline Neutrino Oscillations 76 8.1 Conventional Neutrino Beams 77 8.2 Reactor Experiments 80 8.3 Superbeams 85 8.4 Neutrino Factories 87 8.5 Beta Beams 91 8.6 Comparing Long-baseline Experiments 92 8.7 T and CPT Symmetries 97 9 Model Building 99 9.1 The Seesaw Mechanism 99 9.2 Patterns of Neutrino Masses and Mixings 102 9.3 GUT Models 105 9.4 Non-GUT-specific Models 107 9.5 Leptogenesis 114 10 Supernova Neutrinos 116 10.1 General Description of a Supernova 116 10.2 Neutrino Fluxes from the SN Core 118 10.3 Flavor Swapping from Collective Effects 119 10.4 MSW Conversions in a Supernova 120 10.5 Detection of Supernova Neutrinos 122 10.6 Supernova Relic Neutrinos 124 11 High-energy Astrophysical Neutrinos 126 11.1 Cosmogenic Neutrinos 126 11.2 IceCube 128 11.3 Waxman-Bahcall Flux 132 11.4 Ultra High-energy Neutrino Cross Sections 133 11.5 Z-burst Mechanism 134 11.6 Astrophysical Neutrino Flavor Content 135 11.7 Neutrinos from Dark Matter Annihilation 138 12 Beyond Three Neutrinos 147 12.1 LSND Experiment 147 12.2 MiniBooNE Experiment 152 12.3 Mass-varying Neutrinos 158 12.4 Neutrino Decay 161 12.5 Neutrino Decoherence 163 12.6 Lorentz Invariance Violation 164 12.7 Non-standard Neutrino Interactions 166 12.8 Heavy Majorana Neutrinos at Colliders 169 12.9 Neutrino Magnetic Moment 170 12.10 Fourth Generation Neutrino 171 13 Summary and Outlook 172 References 177 Index 221

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Book SynopsisCovers various aspects of the field of spacecraft charging, ranging from secondary and backscattered electrons, spacecraft charging in Maxwellian plasmas, effective mitigation techniques, and potential wells and barriers to operational anomalies, meteors, and neutral gas release.Trade Review"Fundamentals of Spacecraft Charging is by a well-known leader in the field and provides a comprehensive, unique, and useful addition to the subject. Several sections, particularly the review and discussion of dielectric breakdown, are of particular interest. This book will be valuable as an introductory text or as a reference for those seeking details on specific aspects of charging."—Henry B. Garrett, coauthor of Spacecraft-Environment Interactions"Spacecraft charging has raised many interesting issues for engineers and scientists since the first observations in space. Accessible to a wide range of readers, Shu Lai's book offers a comprehensive survey of key materials on this multifaceted topic."—Alain Hilgers, European Space Research and Technology Centre"Lai's compendium of surface and dielectric spacecraft charging ranges from the basic causes and controlling factors to the effects of secondary electron emission, and the formation of space charge potential wells and barriers. He considers the effects of charged particle beam emission from spacecraft, and the use of plasma sources as 'contactors' to limit charging. Finally, he shows the consequences, from discharges owing to differential charging, to resulting operational anomalies, and offers a suite of effective mitigation techniques."—Thomas E. Moore, NASA, Goddard Space Flight Center"This book is by far and away the most comprehensive reference on the physics of spacecraft charging, which can be destructive for a spacecraft. The text is clear and straightforward and explores all the myriad facets of this phenomenon. I will use it in my teaching."—Daniel E. Hastings, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyTable of ContentsPreface xi Prologue: The Earth's Space Plasma Environment P.1 The Solar Wind xiii P.2 The Magnetosphere xiii P.3 Geomagnetic Substorms xiii P.4 Plasma Density xv P.5 The Ionosphere xvi P.6 The Auroral Region xvi P.7 The Radiation Belts xviii P.8 Relevance of the Space Plasma Environment to Spacecraft Charging xviii P.9 References xx Chapter 1: Introduction to Spacecraft Charging 1.1 What Is Spacecraft Charging? 1 1.2 What Are Some Effects of Spacecraft Charging? 2 1.3 How Does Spacecraft Charging Occur? 4 1.4 Capacitance Charging 5 1.5 Other Currents 6 1.6 Where Does Spacecraft Charging Occur? 6 1.7 Exercises 9 1.8 References 10 Chapter 2: The Spacecraft as a Langmuir Probe 2.1 Orbit-Limited Attraction 11 2.2 Current Collection in Spherical Geometry 12 2.3 Current Collection in Cylindrical Geometry 13 2.4 Current Collection in Plane Geometry 13 2.5 Remarks 14 2.6 Boltzmann's Repulsion Factor 14 2.7 Child-Langmuir Saturation Current 15 2.8 Exercises 16 2.9 References 17 Chapter 3: Secondary and Backscattered Electrons 3.1 Secondary Electron Emission 18 3.2 Backscattered Electrons 20 3.3 Total Contribution of Electron Emissions 20 3.4 Remarks 22 3.5 Dependence on Incident Angle 22 3.6 Remarks on Empirical Formulae 23 3.7 Exercises 23 3.8 References 24 Chapter 4: Spacecraft Charging in a Maxwellian Plasma 4.1 Velocity Distribution 25 4.2 Critical Temperature for the Onset of Spacecraft Charging: Physical Reasoning 26 4.3 Balance of Currents 26 4.4 Charging Level 29 4.5 Equation of Current Balance in the Orbit-Limited Regime 30 4.6 Comparison with Real Satellite Data 31 4.7 Exercises 32 4.8 References 33 Chapter 5: Spacecraft Charging in a Double Maxwellian Plasma 5.1 A General Theorem on Multiple Roots 35 5.2 Double Maxwellian Space Plasma 35 5.3 Triple-Root Situation of Spacecraft Potential 36 5.4 Physical Interpretation of Triple-Root Situation 40 5.5 Triple-Root Jump in Spacecraft Potential 41 5.6 Hysteresis 42 5.7 Triple-Root Spacecraft Charging Domains 42 5.8 Exercises 46 5.9 References 46 Chapter 6: Potential Wells and Barriers 6.1 Introduction 48 6.2 Formation of Potential Wells and Barriers 48 6.3 Effects of Potential Barriers on Electron or Ion Distribution Functions 51 6.4 Interpretation of Experimental Data 51 6.5 Double Maxwellian Distribution Formed by a Potential Barrier 52 6.6 Bootstrap Charging 53 6.7 Charging in Spacecraft Wakes 56 6.8 Exercises 58 6.9 References 58 Chapter 7: Spacecraft Charging in Sunlight 7.1 Photoelectron Current 60 7.2 Surface Reflectance 60 7.3 The Prominent Solar Spectral Line 62 7.4 Can Spacecraft Charging to Negative Voltages Occur in Sunlight? 62 7.5 Spacecraft Charging to Positive Potentials 63 7.6 The Photoemission Current at Negative Spacecraft Potentials 63 7.7 The Monopole-Dipole Potential 65 7.8 Fraction of Photoemission Current Trapped 67 7.9 Competition between Monopole and Dipole 68 7.10 Measurement of Spacecraft Potential in Sunlight 68 7.11 Exercises 69 7.12 References 70 Chapter 8: Space Tethers, Plasma Contactors, and Sheath Ionization 8.1 Lorentz Force 71 8.2 Tether Moving across Ambient Magnetic Field 71 8.3 Bare and Conducting Tether 73 8.4 Floating Potential of Plasma Contactor 75 8.5 Sheath Model 75 8.6 Sheath Ionization 77 8.7 Numerical Method for Sheath Ionization Model 79 8.8 Results of Sheath Ionization 80 8.9 Comparison of Theory with Space Experiment 81 8.10 Exercises 82 8.11 References 82 Chapter 9: Surface Charging Induced by Electron Beam Impact 9.1 Impact Energy of an Electron Beam 84 9.2 Electron Beam Impact on an Initially Uncharged Surface 85 9.3 Electron Impact on an Initially Negatively Charged Surface 85 9.4 Electron Impact on an Initially Positively Charged Surface 87 9.5 Summary 89 9.6 Limitation 89 9.7 Exercises 89 9.8 References 90 Chapter 10: Spacecraft Charging Induced by Electron Beam Emission 10.1 Current Balance without Beam Emission 91 10.2 Electron Beam Emission 92 10.3 Charging to Positive Potentials 93 10.4 Remarks 94 10.5 Exercises 95 10.6 References 96 Chapter 11: Supercharging 11.1 Charging Induced by Large Beam Current Emission 97 11.2 Supercharging 99 11.3 Physical Interpretation of Experimental Results 99 11.4 Surface Charging of Booms 100 11.5 Summary 101 11.6 Exercises 101 11.7 References 102 Chapter 12: Ion Beam Emission from Spacecraft 12.1 Active Control of Spacecraft Potential 103 12.2 Return of Ion Beam 105 12.3 Lower Limit of the Reduced Potential 106 12.4 Space Charge Effect 106 12.5 Charge Exchange in Charged Particle Beams 108 12.6 Chemical Reactions in Ion Beams 110 12.7 Ion Beam in Sunlight 110 12.8 Exercises 112 12.9 References 112 Chapter 13: Discharges on Spacecraft 13.1 Introduction 114 13.2 Location of Discharges on Spacecraft 114 13.3 Surface Discharge Scaling Law 116 13.4 Differential Charging 116 13.5 "Brush Fire" Discharge 117 13.6 Paschen and Non-Paschen Discharges 118 13.7 The Townsend Criterion 119 13.8 Remark on Threshold Voltage 121 13.9 Time Evolution of a Discharge 121 13.10 Laboratory Observations on Discharges 122 13.11 Discharges Initiated by Meteor or Debris Impacts 123 13.12 Exercises 124 13.13 References 124 Chapter 14: Energetic Particle Penetration into Matter 14.1 Introduction 126 14.2 High-Energy Charged Particle Penetration into Solids 126 14.3 Physics of High-Energy Charged Particle Penetration into Matter 127 14.4 The Bohr Model of Charged Particle Interaction 127 14.5 Stopping Power 129 14.6 The Bethe-Bloch Equation 129 14.7 Range and Penetration Distance 130 14.8 Approximate Penetration Depth Formula 132 14.9 Effects of Charged Particle Penetration 133 14.10 Effects on Astronauts 134 14.11 Research Questions in High-Energy Penetration of Charged Particles into Matter 134 14.12 Exercises 134 14.13 References 135 Chapter 15: Spacecraft Anomalies 15.1 Introduction 137 15.2 Space Anomalies due to Surface Charging 137 15.3 Energy of Surface Discharge 139 15.4 Correlation with Space Environment 140 15.5 Evidence of Deep Dielectric Charging on CRRES 140 15.6 Conclusive Evidence of Deep Dielectric Charging 141 15.7 Anomalies Observed on Twin Satellites in the Radiation Belts 142 15.8 Exercises 144 15.9 References 145 Chapter 16: Deep Dielectric Charging 16.1 Introduction 146 16.2 The Importance of Deep Dielectric Charging 146 16.3 High-Energy Electron and Ion Fluxes 147 16.4 Penetration of High-Energy Charges into Materials 148 16.5 Properties of Dielectrics 149 16.6 Observations Attributed to Deep Dielectric Charging 153 16.7 Avalanche Ionization in a High Electric Field 154 16.8 Related Questions and Related Mechanisms 155 16.9 The Mott Transition 156 16.10 The Poole-Frenkel High Electric Field Effect 158 16.11 Zener Breakdown 158 16.12 Electron Fluence 160 16.13 Critical Fluence for Deep Dielectric Charging 161 16.14 Charge Density with Leakage 161 16.15 A Remark on Spacecraft Anomalies 161 16.16 Effect of Electrons Deposited inside Electronics 162 16.17 Exercises 163 16.18 References 164 Chapter 17: Charging Mitigation Methods 17.1 Introduction 166 17.2 Sharp Spike Method 166 17.3 Hot Filament Emission Method 168 17.4 Conducting Grid Method 169 17.5 Partially Conducting Paint/Surface Method 169 17.6 High Secondary Electron Yield Method 169 17.7 Electron and Ion Emission Method 169 17.8 The DSCS Charge Control Experiment 171 17.9 Vaporization Method 172 17.10 Deep Dielectric Charging 172 17.11 Exercises 172 17.12 References 173 Chapter 18: Introduction to Meteors 18.1 Size Distribution 175 18.2 Meteor Showers 175 18.3 Meteor Velocity Limits 177 18.4 Nonshower Meteors 179 18.5 Debris 179 18.6 Meteor Composition 180 18.7 Exercises 180 18.8 References 180 Chapter 19: Meteor Impacts 19.1 Kinetic Energy of Meteoric Particles 182 19.2 Depth of Penetration 182 19.3 Mitigation of Meteoric Impacts 186 19.4 Meteor Shields 186 19.5 Impact Probability of Meteors 187 19.6 Perturbation of Angular Momentum 188 19.7 Secondary Electrons and Ions by Neutral Particle Impact 188 19.8 Plasma Generation by Neutral Particle Impact 188 19.9 Sudden Spacecraft Discharge Hazards 189 19.10 Summary 191 19.11 Exercises 191 19.12 References 191 Chapter 20: Neutral Gas Release 20.1 Ionization and Recombination 194 20.2 Critical Ionization Velocity 197 20.3 Neutral Beam Stripping 199 20.4 Exercises 201 20.5 References 201 Appendixes and Addenda Appendix 1: Drift of Hot Electrons 205 Appendix 2: Transformation of Coordinates 214 Appendix 3: Normalization and Dimension of Maxwellian Distribution 215 Appendix 4: Flux Integrals 217 Appendix 5: Energy Distribution 219 Appendix 6: Sheath Engulfment 220 Appendix 7: PN Junctions 225 Appendix 8: Probability Function 229 Addendum 1: Computer Software for Spacecraft Charging Calculations 231 Addendum 2: Spacecraft Charging at Jupiter and Saturn 236 Addendum 3: Physical Constants and Conventions 240 Acknowledgments 243 Index 245

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Book SynopsisEssential Radio Astronomy is the only textbook on the subject specifically designed for a one-semester introductory course for advanced undergraduates or graduate students in astronomy and astrophysics. It starts from first principles in order to fill gaps in students' backgrounds, make teaching easier for professors who are not expert radio astronTrade Review"[Essential Radio Astronomy] should be on the reference shelves of all major universities and research institutes."--Choice

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