Astrophysics Books

Book SynopsisLeonhard Euler's Letters to a German Princess: A Milestone in the History of Physics Textbooks and More is a milestone in the history of physics textbooks and the instruction of women in the sciences.It also covers views of its author on epistemology, religion, and innovations in scientific equipment, including telescopes and microscopes. Today, 250 years later, we study this work of Euler's as a foundation for the history of physics teaching and analyze the letters from an historical and pedagogical point of view.Table of Contents Preface Prologue: physics pedagogy Author biographies Physics textbooks: origins before 1650 and principal natural philosophies and physics textbooks of the Enlightenment The two princesses and the Letters Euler: life, research, and teaching Selected letters from Volume 1 (letters 1-79) Selected letters from Volume 2 (letters 80-154) and Volume 3 (letters 155-234) Afterword Selected bibliography Glossary of principal names

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Book SynopsisThis guide provides useful insight for first-time telescope buyers as well as experienced amateurs. It examines the advantages and disadvantages of different types of telescopes, mountings, and accessories-ranging from refractors and reflectors to computer controlled drives and CCD cameras. The author also covers observation techniques, photographic equipment, astronomical software, as well as equipment care and maintenance.Table of Contents1 Fundamentals for Beginners.- Using Low Magnification.- Using High Magnification.- Formulae.- Jargon.- Eyepiece Sizes.- 2 Refractors and Reflectors.- Achromatic Refractors.- Apochromatic Refractors.- Semi-Apochromatic Refractors.- Refractors or Reflectors?.- Newtonian Reflectors.- Long-Focus Newtonians.- Collimation.- Dobsonians.- Buying a Telescope.- Beginners’ Telescopes.- Buyer Beware!.- High-Quality Refractors.- Apochromats for the Connoisseur.- Other Telescope Considerations.- 3 Catadioptrics, Cassegrains and Schmidt-Cassegrains.- Cassegrains.- Schmidt-Cassegrains.- Electronic Drive Control.- Periodic Error Correction.- Autoguiders.- Summary.- Maksutovs.- Schiefspieglers.- 4 Binoculars.- Stands for Binoculars.- Image-Stabilised Binoculars.- 5 Eyepieces.- Magnification.- Lowest Practical Magnification.- Highest Practical Magnification.- Practical Considerations.- Comet Seeking.- Focusing-Tube Diameter.- Real Field Limitations.- Popular Commercial Eyepieces.- High-Definition Eyepieces.- Barlow Lenses.- Eyepiece Projection.- Illuminated-Reticle Eyepieces.- Commercial Guiding Eyepieces.- 6 Telescope Mountings.- The Equatorial Mounting.- Commercial Telescope Mounting Systems.- Fork Mountings.- German Equatorial Mountings.- The Split-Ring Equatorial.- Commercial Drive Systems.- Home-Made Drives and Unusual Mountings.- Electronic Drive Design.- Unusual Mountings.- Poncet Platforms.- Alt-azimuth Field De-Rotators.- 7 Accessories.- Finders.- Unity-Power Finders.- Low-Power Finders.- Guide Telescopes.- Off-Axis Guiders.- Horses for Courses.- Photographic Equipment - Film versus CCD.- Undriven Astrophotography.- Simple Tracking.- Dew.- Film, Meteor-Photography Equipment and Wide-Field Camera Equipment.- Satellite Trails.- Medium-Format Cameras.- Fish-Eye Lenses.- Developing and Printing.- Developing Tanks.- Developing Colour Film.- Black-and-White Printing.- Cold Cameras and Film Hypersensitising.- Camera Interfaces.- Focusers.- Commercial Schmidt-Cassegrain Focusing.- Manual Guiding and Off-Axis Guiders.- Guiding for Comet Photography.- A Comet Marathon.- Coma Correctors.- A Final Word on Focusers.- Filters.- Planetary Filters.- Venus.- Mars.- Jupiter and Saturn.- The Moon.- Deep Sky Filters.- Comet Filters.- Photographic Filters.- Photometric Filters for CCDs.- Schmidt Cameras and Astrographs.- 8 Electronic Imaging and the Electronics Revolution.- CCDs.- The Basics.- Camera Design.- CCDs Compared with Film.- Disadvantages of CCDs.- Image Scale and Pixel Size.- Buying a CCD Camera.- Starlight Xpress.- Colour Imaging.- SBIG and Meade.- Auto-Slewing with a Schmidt-Cassegrain and a CCD Camera.- SBIG Autoguiding.- Other Manufacturers.- Using a CCD Camera.- Understanding and Processing the Digital Image.- A Dark Frame.- Background Brightness.- Flat-Field.- Diffraction Focusers.- Useful Processing Routines.- Unsharp Masking.- Deconvolution.- Median Filters.- Non-Linear Contrast-Stretch.- Image Formats.- Astrometry.- Photometry.- 9 Image Processing, Planetarium and Telescope Control Software.- QMips 1.81 by Christian Buil.- MIRA AL by Axiom.- Hidden Image by Sehgal.- CCD Astrometry.- Paintshop Pro.- Adobe Photoshop.- Printers and Scanners.- Scanning Photographs.- Planetarium Software.- Redshift 2.- The Sky.- Real Sky.- Guide.- Megastar.- Starry Night Deluxe.- NGCView 5.02.- Universe Explorer.- Voyager II.- Comet Explorer.- The Astronomer Software.- Planetarium Telescope Control.- 10 Video Astronomy.- Image Intensifiers.- 11 Observatories.- The Simplest Solution.- Simple Observatories.- If It Can Go Wrong.- Observatory Domes.- 12 Equipment for Observing the Sun.- Eyepiece Projection.- Direct Solar Observation.- Observing in White Light.- Solar Filters: Inconel.- Solar Filters: Mylar.- Seeing.- Hydrogen-Alpha Equipment.- Viewing Eclipses.- 13 Star Atlases and Deep Sky Atlases.- Appendix 1 Dealers, Bibliography and URLs.- Equipment Suppliers.- Quality Binocular Mounting Suppliers.- Societies Worth Joining.- Internet URLs.- Books.- Appendix 2 Photographic and Visual Magnitude Limits.

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Book SynopsisAstronomers and students interested in studying the Sun require a thorough understanding of the proper techniques and equipment. Safety precautions are paramount, as the intensity of the heat and light can instantly blind the untrained observer. In this book, Kitchin provides all the information needed for safe observation as well as novel techniques that will make solar observation a rewarding experience.Trade ReviewFrom the reviews: "This book is part of a series aimed at the newcomer to astronomy. In many respects the author fulfills this aim very well … . The book is well illustrated with drawings and photographs – over 30 of which are in colour. … If … you are keen on becoming a solar observer, make a space on your bookshelf for this book. Or if, like me, you are established in solar observing, keep it as a reference for when you take up CCD imaging … ." (Brian Halls, Astronomy Now, April, 2002) "This book forms part of Patrick Moore’s Practical Astronomy Series … . it discusses the safety precautions that need to be taken in such a way as to be informative and not to scare someone from making solar observations. … The book also gives sufficient information for someone, for example, to attempt taking photographs or CCD images of the Sun. … I think this book will encourage amateur astronomers to take up solar observing … ." (Peter Meadows, The Astronomer, Vol. 38 (450), 2001) "This book deserves to be in every observational astronomer’s possession. In just over 200 pages, excellent and clear descriptions, advice on solar observing methods – most of them within the reach of amateur astronomers – are given. … The many illustrations and diagrams are all relevant and well chosen, as are the (not too many!) equations. … This book is wonderful value and should encourage all amateur astronomers to observe our nearest star. A nice, warm welcome to this book." (Richard Bailey, Popular Astronomy, October, 2001)Table of Contents1 The Sun — What to See and Why.- Beginnings.- Sunspots.- Sunspot Cycle.- Limb Darkening, Granulation and Faculae.- Limb Darkening.- Granulation.- Faculae.- Narrow Band Observations.- Chromospheric Network.- Prominences and Filaments.- Flares.- Eclipses.- 2 General Telescopic Observing Techniques.- Full Aperture Filters.- Filter Basics.- Telescope Basics.- Full Aperture Solar Filters.- Projection.- Telescopes.- Binoculars.- Other Approaches.- Reflection.- Solar Diagonals.- Sextants.- Optimising Your Telescope.- Diffraction.- Aberration.- Optics.- Seeing.- Stray Light.- 3 White Light Observing.- Sunspots.- Limb Darkening.- Granulation.- Faculae.- 4 Recording Your Observations.- Drawing.- Photography.- Projected Images.- Full Aperture Filters.- Magnified Imaging.- Conventional Cameras.- CCD Cameras.- Image Processing.- Data Reduction.- Image Enhancement.- Video Cameras.- 5 Observing Programmes.- The Sunspot Cycle.- Active Regions.- Solar Rotation.- 6 Unaided Observations.- Projected Images.- Filters.- Full Aperture Filters.- Welder’s Goggles.- 7 Eclipses.- Eclipses.- Eclipse Expeditions.- Naked Eye Observing.- Binoculars and Telescopes.- Visual Observations.- Imaging.- Photographic and Digital Cameras.- Astronomical CCD Cameras.- Video Cameras.- Shadow Band Imaging.- Observing Programme.- Specialist Instrumentation.- Radial Density Filters.- Slitless Spectroscopes.- Transits.- 8 Specialist Instruments.- Narrow Band Filters.- H? Filters.- Lyot Monochromators.- Spectroscopy.- A Spectroscope.- Prominence Spectroscope.- Spectrohelioscope.- Coronagraph.- Solar Telescopes.- 9 Radio Telescopes.- 10 The Limits of Solar Observation.- Magnetic Fields.- Spacecraft.- Solar Oscillations.- Solar Image Gallery.- Appendix 1 Bibliography.- Appendix 2 Equipment Suppliers.- Appendix 3 Web Sites Relating to the Sun.

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Book SynopsisAs humanity expands its presence into space and ultimately settles beyond earth permanently, what freedoms can people expect? On the one hand space offers an escape from the traditions and entrenched patterns on Earth. On the other hand, how can you be free when the air you breathe comes from a manufacturing process controlled by someone else? In four essays, Charles Cockell explores the nature of extra-terrestrial liberty, one of the most pressing discussions in the future of political philosophy. Charles Cockell is Professor of Astrobiology at the University of Edinburgh. He has previously worked at the British Antarctic Survey and NASA and is Director of the UK Centre for Astrobiology.

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Book SynopsisDescribes the branch of astronomy in which processes in the universe are investigated with experimental methods employed in particle-physics experiments. After a historical introduction the basics of elementary particles, Explains particle interactions and the relevant detection techniques, while modern aspects of astroparticle physics are described in a chapter on cosmology. Provides an orientation in the field of astroparticle physics that many beginners might seek and appreciate because the underlying physics fundamentals are presented with little mathematics, and the results are illustrated by many diagrams. Readers have a chance to enter this field of astronomy with a book that closes the gap between expert and popular level.Table of ContentsHistorical Introduction.- The Standard Model of Elementary Particles.- Kinematics and Cross Sections.- Physics of Particle and Radiation Detection.- Acceleration Mechanisms.- Primary Cosmic Rays.- Secondary Cosmic Rays.- Cosmology.- The Early Universe.- Big Bang Nucleosynthesis.- The Cosmic Microwave Background.- Inflation.- Dark Matter.- Astrobiology.- Gravitational Waves.- Neutrino Astronomy.- Extrasolar Planets.- Outlook.- Glossary.- Solutions.- Appendices.- Index.

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Book SynopsisThe observational component of astronomy is an exciting and vital part of any astrophysics degree. With the advent of low-cost astronomical cameras and remote and robotic operation, more students than ever have the opportunity to observe and perform observatory research. This updated and fully corrected textbook provides a comprehensive overview of practical observing techniques for undergraduate astrophysics courses. The chapters introduce students to the basics of the field before delving into telescope types, the nature and operation of the astronomical camera, imaging techniques and reduction, photometry and spectrography, and solar and radio observations.The second edition covers the latest research on calibrating the telescope-camera-observatory system. It contains revised information on all available astronomy equipment, including filters, webcams, sensors, and telescope designs. Also included is an entirely new chapter on exoplanet transit measurements. The textbook’s practical approach will guide readers from basic first-year techniques to those required for a final-year project.Trade Review“It is excellent, and its breadth of coverage is laudable. I would recommend it to undergraduate students and amateur astronomers … .” (John Southworth, The Observatory, Vol. 141 (1282), June, 2021)Table of Contents

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Book SynopsisOffers an accessible text and reference (a cosmic-ray manual) for graduate students entering the field and high-energy astrophysicists will find this an accessible cosmic-ray manual Easy to read for the general astronomer, the first part describes the standard model of cosmic rays based on our understanding of modern particle physics. Presents the acceleration scenario in some detail in supernovae explosions as well as in the passage of cosmic rays through the Galaxy. Compares experimental data in the atmosphere as well as underground are compared with theoretical modelsTable of Contents Overview Part I:The Standard Model of Cosmic Rays.- Cosmic ray interactions.- The birth of cosmic rays.- Cosmic rays in the Galaxy.- Cosmic rays at the top of the atmosphere.- Cosmic rays in the atmosphere.- Cosmic rays underground.- Part II Contemporary Challenges.- Cosmic ray showers.- The end of the cosmic ray spectrum.- High energy neutrino and gamma-ray astronomy. Appendix References Index

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Book SynopsisThis book deals with the interdisciplinary areas of nuclear physics, supernovae and neutron star physics. It addresses the physics and astrophysics of the spectacular supernova explosions, starting with the collapse of massive stars and ending with the birth of neutron stars or black holes. Recent progress in the understanding of core collapse supernova (CCSN) and observational aspects of future detections of neutrinos from CCSN explosions are discussed. The other main focus in this text is the novel phases of dense nuclear matter, its compositions and equation of state (EoS) from low to very high baryon density relevant to supernovae and neutron stars. The multi-messenger astrophysics of binary neutron star merger GW170817 and its relation to EoS through tidal deformability are also presented in detail. The synthesis of elements heavier than iron in the supernova and neutron star environment by the rapid (r)-process are treated here with special emphasis on the nucleosynthesis in the ejected material from GW170817. This monograph is written for graduate students and researchers in the field of nuclear astrophysics.Table of ContentsPREFACE1. INTRODUCTION 2. THEORY OF SUPERNOVA EXPLOSIONS 2.1 Overview- historical 2.2 Supernova Type Ia 2.3 Gravitational collapse and pre-supernova conditions 2.4 Production of neutrinos and their emission 2.5 Shock wave formation and its eventual stalling 2.6 The revival of the shock wave- the neutrino mechanism 2.7 Multi-dimensional hydrodynamic simulations and the present scenario 2.8 The supernova SN1987A 2.9 Detection of neutrinos from future supernova events 3. NEUTRON STARS 3.1 History and discovery of neutron stars 3.2 Observational Constraints on neutron stars 3.3 Compositions and novel phases of neutron stars - crust to core 3.4 Equation of State (EoS) models of neutron star matter 3.5 Relativistic field theoretical models for dense matter at zero and finite temperatures 3.6 Tolman-Oppenheimer-Volkoff Equation and Structures of neutron stars 3.7 A stable branch of compact stars beyond neutron star 3.8 Rotating neutron stars, moment of inertia (I) and quadrupole moment (Q) 3.9 Neutron star matter in strongly quantizing magnetic fields 3.10 EoS tables for supernova and binary neutron star merger simulations 4. BINARY NEUTRON STAR MERGERS 4.1 Gravitational waves as new window into neutron stars 4.2 First binary neutron star (BNS) merger GW170817 and multi-messenger astrophysics 4.3 Tidal deformability, LOVE number and EoS 4.4 I-Love-Q universal relations 4.5 Late inspiral phase of BNS merger, tidal deformability and cold EoS 4.6 Neutron Star radius determination from tidal deformability 4.7 Hot and neutrino trapped merger remnant and finite temperature EoS 5. SYNTHESIS OF HEAVY ELEMENTS IN THE UNIVERSE 5.1 s-, r- and p-processes 5.2 Conditions for production of elements by r- process and the sites 5.3 Electromagnetic counterpart of GW170817 and ejected matter in BNS merger 5.4 Decompression of ejected neutron rich matter in Lattimer and Schramm model 5.5 Kilonova model 5.6 Heavy element synthesis in neutron rich matter ejected in GW170817 INDEX BIBLIOGRAPHY (eventually at chapter-ends)

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Book SynopsisThis book deals with the interdisciplinary areas of nuclear physics, supernovae and neutron star physics. It addresses the physics and astrophysics of the spectacular supernova explosions, starting with the collapse of massive stars and ending with the birth of neutron stars or black holes. Recent progress in the understanding of core collapse supernova (CCSN) and observational aspects of future detections of neutrinos from CCSN explosions are discussed. The other main focus in this text is the novel phases of dense nuclear matter, its compositions and equation of state (EoS) from low to very high baryon density relevant to supernovae and neutron stars. The multi-messenger astrophysics of binary neutron star merger GW170817 and its relation to EoS through tidal deformability are also presented in detail. The synthesis of elements heavier than iron in the supernova and neutron star environment by the rapid (r)-process are treated here with special emphasis on the nucleosynthesis in the ejected material from GW170817. This monograph is written for graduate students and researchers in the field of nuclear astrophysics.Table of ContentsPREFACE1. INTRODUCTION 2. THEORY OF SUPERNOVA EXPLOSIONS 2.1 Overview- historical 2.2 Supernova Type Ia 2.3 Gravitational collapse and pre-supernova conditions 2.4 Production of neutrinos and their emission 2.5 Shock wave formation and its eventual stalling 2.6 The revival of the shock wave- the neutrino mechanism 2.7 Multi-dimensional hydrodynamic simulations and the present scenario 2.8 The supernova SN1987A 2.9 Detection of neutrinos from future supernova events 3. NEUTRON STARS 3.1 History and discovery of neutron stars 3.2 Observational Constraints on neutron stars 3.3 Compositions and novel phases of neutron stars - crust to core 3.4 Equation of State (EoS) models of neutron star matter 3.5 Relativistic field theoretical models for dense matter at zero and finite temperatures 3.6 Tolman-Oppenheimer-Volkoff Equation and Structures of neutron stars 3.7 A stable branch of compact stars beyond neutron star 3.8 Rotating neutron stars, moment of inertia (I) and quadrupole moment (Q) 3.9 Neutron star matter in strongly quantizing magnetic fields 3.10 EoS tables for supernova and binary neutron star merger simulations 4. BINARY NEUTRON STAR MERGERS 4.1 Gravitational waves as new window into neutron stars 4.2 First binary neutron star (BNS) merger GW170817 and multi-messenger astrophysics 4.3 Tidal deformability, LOVE number and EoS 4.4 I-Love-Q universal relations 4.5 Late inspiral phase of BNS merger, tidal deformability and cold EoS 4.6 Neutron Star radius determination from tidal deformability 4.7 Hot and neutrino trapped merger remnant and finite temperature EoS 5. SYNTHESIS OF HEAVY ELEMENTS IN THE UNIVERSE 5.1 s-, r- and p-processes 5.2 Conditions for production of elements by r- process and the sites 5.3 Electromagnetic counterpart of GW170817 and ejected matter in BNS merger 5.4 Decompression of ejected neutron rich matter in Lattimer and Schramm model 5.5 Kilonova model 5.6 Heavy element synthesis in neutron rich matter ejected in GW170817 INDEX BIBLIOGRAPHY (eventually at chapter-ends)

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Book Synopsis1 Introduction.- 2 Data.- 3 Methods.- 4 Results and Discussion.- 5 Conclusions.

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Book SynopsisThe raw numbers of high-energy-density physics are amazing: shock waves at hundreds of km/s (approaching a million km per hour), temperatures of millions of degrees, and pressures that exceed 100 million atmospheres. This title surveys the production of high-energy-density conditions, the fundamental plasma and hydrodynamic models that can describe them and the problem of scaling from the laboratory to the cosmos. Connections to astrophysics are discussed throughout. The book is intended to support coursework in high-energy-density physics, to meet the needs of new researchers in this field, and also to serve as a useful reference on the fundamentals. Specifically the book has been designed to enable academics in physics, astrophysics, applied physics and engineering departments to provide in a single-course, an introduction to fluid mechanics and radiative transfer, with dramatic applications in the field of high-energy-density systems. This second edition includes pedagogic improvements to the presentation throughout and additional material on equations of state, heat waves, and ionization fronts, as well as problem sets accompanied by solutions.Table of ContentsIntroduction to High-Energy-Density Physics.- Descriptions of Fluids and Plasmas.- Properties of High-Energy-Density Plasmas.- Shocks and Rarefactions.- Hydrodynamic Instabilities.- Radiative Transfer.- Radiation Hydrodynamics.- Creating High-Energy-Density Conditions.- Inertial Confinement Fusion.- Experimental Astrophysics.- Relativistic High-Energy-Density Systems.- Appendix A: Constants, Acronyms, and Standard Variables.- Appendix B: Sample Mathematica Code.- Appendix C: List of the Homework Problems and Solutions to Selected Problems.

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Book SynopsisThe raw numbers of high-energy-density physics are amazing: shock waves at hundreds of km/s (approaching a million km per hour), temperatures of millions of degrees, and pressures that exceed 100 million atmospheres. This title surveys the production of high-energy-density conditions, the fundamental plasma and hydrodynamic models that can describe them and the problem of scaling from the laboratory to the cosmos. Connections to astrophysics are discussed throughout. The book is intended to support coursework in high-energy-density physics, to meet the needs of new researchers in this field, and also to serve as a useful reference on the fundamentals. Specifically the book has been designed to enable academics in physics, astrophysics, applied physics and engineering departments to provide in a single-course, an introduction to fluid mechanics and radiative transfer, with dramatic applications in the field of high-energy-density systems. This second edition includes pedagogic improvements to the presentation throughout and additional material on equations of state, heat waves, and ionization fronts, as well as problem sets accompanied by solutions.Table of ContentsIntroduction to High-Energy-Density Physics.- Descriptions of Fluids and Plasmas.- Properties of High-Energy-Density Plasmas.- Shocks and Rarefactions.- Hydrodynamic Instabilities.- Radiative Transfer.- Radiation Hydrodynamics.- Creating High-Energy-Density Conditions.- Inertial Confinement Fusion.- Experimental Astrophysics.- Relativistic High-Energy-Density Systems.- Appendix A: Constants, Acronyms, and Standard Variables.- Appendix B: Sample Mathematica Code.- Appendix C: List of the Homework Problems and Solutions to Selected Problems.

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Book SynopsisDescribes the branch of astronomy in which processes in the universe are investigated with experimental methods employed in particle-physics experiments. After a historical introduction the basics of elementary particles, Explains particle interactions and the relevant detection techniques, while modern aspects of astroparticle physics are described in a chapter on cosmology. Provides an orientation in the field of astroparticle physics that many beginners might seek and appreciate because the underlying physics fundamentals are presented with little mathematics, and the results are illustrated by many diagrams. Readers have a chance to enter this field of astronomy with a book that closes the gap between expert and popular level.Trade ReviewFrom the reviews: "In astroparticle physics techniques known from particle physics experiments are applied to investigate the universe … . Grupen presents an introduction and overview of the main ideas and concepts of this rapidly growing field of research. Written in a very clear and readable fashion it is accessible to a broad audience. … is enriched with many diagrams and illustrations, increasing the readability of the text. … Grupen’s book is really a must-have for anyone looking for a good starting point in … astroparticle physics." (Michael Tytgat, Physicalia, Vol. 28 (4-6), 2006) "Astroparticle Physics is a timely attempt to describe the status of a booming field at the interface of astrophysics, particle physics, and cosmology that has produced so many exciting results over the past few years. The format of the book, with the wide margin for keywords and figures, the extensive glossary, and the problems for each section (with detailed solutions), make it very readable and provide a good starting point for undergraduate and postgraduate students interested in astroparticle physics." (Johannes Knapp, The Observatory, Vol. 126 (1192), 2006) "This book … covers a wide range and requires a good grounding in modern physics to be useful. … Included are a mathematical appendix and an appendix on the results from statistical physics necessary to understand the thermodynamics of the early universe. These additions make the book a good introduction to this rapidly moving subject. Each chapter offers problems with solutions, and a 26-page comprehensive index and references are included. A very useful book for the right reader. Summing Up: Recommended." (K. W. Ogilvie, CHOICE, March, 2006) "Claus Grupen provides a comprehensive and up-to-date introduction to the main ideas and terminology of the study of elementary particles originating from astrophysical objects. … The style and presentation of the material make the book accessible to a broad audience … . A good selection of simple exercises with solution increases its pedagogical value and makes it suitable as a textbook for an undergraduate course. Non-specialists who want to follow the main issues of current research in the field … also benefit from Grupen’s book." (Marcello Lissia, CERN Courier, Vol. 46 (1), 2006) "In the present context, Astroparticle Physics consists of the studies of charged cosmic rays, neutrinos, gamma rays, X-rays and cosmology. … The index is magnificent and there is a good, relevant, mathematical appendix plus a glossary of terms which is actually useful. Best of all, there are worthwhile problems at the end of each chapter, complete with full solutions at the end of the book. … this is a well written, well produced, text for a new field at a reasonable price." (Roger Clay, Australian Physics, Vol. 42 (5), 2005)Table of ContentsHistorical Introduction.- The Standard Model of Elementary Particles.- Kinematics and Cross Sections.- Physics of Particle and Radiation Detection.- Acceleration Mechanisms.- Primary Cosmic Rays.- Secondary Cosmic Rays.- Cosmology.- The Early Universe.- Big Bang Nucleosynthesis.- The Cosmic Microwave Background.- Inflation.- Dark Matter.- Astrobiology.- Outlook.- Solutions.

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Book SynopsisA thorough introduction to solar physics based on recent spacecraft observations. The author introduces the solar corona and sets it in the context of basic plasma physics before moving on to discuss plasma instabilities and plasma heating processes. The latest results on coronal heating and radiation are presented. Spectacular phenomena such as solar flares and coronal mass ejections are described in detail, together with their potential effects on the Earth. Table of ContentsThermal Radiation.- Hydrostatics.- Hydrodynamics.- Magnetic Fields.- Magneto-Hydrodynamics (MHD).- MHD Oscillations.- Propagating MHD Waves.- Coronal Heating.- Magnetic Reconnection.- Particle Acceleration.- Particle Kinematics.- Hard X-Rays.- Gamma-Rays.- Radio Emission.- Flare Plasma Dynamics.- Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs).

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Book SynopsisHalf a century ago, S. Chandrasekhar wrote these words in the preface to his l celebrated and successful book: In this monograph an attempt has been made to present the theory of stellar dy­ namics as a branch of classical dynamics - a discipline in the same general category as celestial mechanics. [ ... J Indeed, several of the problems of modern stellar dy­ namical theory are so severely classical that it is difficult to believe that they are not already discussed, for example, in Jacobi's Vorlesungen. Since then, stellar dynamics has developed in several directions and at var­ ious levels, basically three viewpoints remaining from which to look at the problems encountered in the interpretation of the phenomenology. Roughly speaking, we can say that a stellar system (cluster, galaxy, etc.) can be con­ sidered from the point of view of celestial mechanics (the N-body problem with N » 1), fluid mechanics (the system is represented by a material con­ tinuum), or statistical mechanics (one defines a distribution function for the positions and the states of motion of the components of the system).Trade ReviewFrom the reviews "The book is ... didactically written and contains topics from classical to most modern ones, treated rigorously by indicating where complete proofs are to be found."Zentralblatt für Mathematik, 1999Table of Contents— The Theory of Orbits from Epicycles to “Chaos”.- 1. Dynamics and Dynamical Systems — Quod Satis.- 2. The Two-Body Problem.- 3. The N-Body Problem.- 4. The Three-Body Problem.- 5. Orbits in Given Potentials.- Mathematical Appendix.- A.1 Spherical Trigonometry.- A.2 Curvilinear Coordinate Systems.- A.3 Riemannian Geometry.- Bibliographical Notes.- Name Index.

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Book SynopsisBlack Holes are still considered to be among the most mysterious and fascinating objects in our universe. Awaiting the era of gravitational astronomy, much progress in theoretical modeling and understanding of classical and quantum black holes has already been achieved. The present volume serves as a tutorial, high-level guided tour through the black-hole landscape: information paradox and blackhole thermodynamics, numerical simulations of black-hole formation and collisions, braneworld scenarios and stability of black holes with respect to perturbations are treated in great detail, as is their possible occurrence at the LHC. An outgrowth of a topical and tutorial summer school, this extensive set of carefully edited notes has been set up with the aim of constituting an advanced-level, multi-authored textbook which meets the needs of both postgraduate students and young researchers in the fields of modern cosmology, astrophysics and (quantum) field theory. Table of ContentsBlack Holes and their Properties.- What Exactly is the Information Paradox?.- Classical Yang–Mills Black Hole Hair in Anti-de Sitter Space.- Black Hole Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics.- Colliding Black Holes and Gravitational Waves.- Numerical Simulations of Black Hole Formation.- Higher-Dimensional Black Holes.- Black Holes in Higher-Dimensional Gravity.- Braneworld Black Holes.- Higher Order Gravity Theories and Their Black Hole Solutions.- Gravitational Waves from Braneworld Black Holes.- Black Holes at the Large Hadron Collider.- Perturbations of Black Holes.- Perturbations and Stability of Higher-Dimensional Black Holes.- Analytic Calculation of Quasi-Normal Modes.

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Book SynopsisThe idea to hold a workshop on globular clusters in Concepcion emerged during 2005 out of a variety of circumstances. Four years had passed since the IAUSymposium 207 onExtragalactic Globular Clusters inPuc' on, atime span, which we thought to be long enough for justifying a new meeting with theintent toreviewthemostrecentdevelopments inthe?eld of extragalactic stars clusters. Originally intended to be a small-scale workshop, the response from the community was overwhelming so that only a full-scale international conferencewas abletocopewith thenumerousrequestsfortalksandposters. Finally, about 160 participants gathered in Concepci' on on March 6th, 2006. The venue was the university lecture hall located in the facultad de - manidadesyartesoftheUniversidaddeConcepci' on.Posterswereexposedin the lobby of the faculty building. The weather was as good as one can reas- ablyexpectfromalatesummerinConcepci' on.Althoughtheprogrammewas so tight that separate poster sessions other than those during co?ee breaks could not be accomodated, posters received a lot of attention. From the ?rst to the last talk, the atmosphere was inspiring and the conference could keep its tension for ?ve full days. This clearly shows that the attraction which globular clusters exercise on astrophysicists of quite di?erent ?avours, is as strong as ever.Table of ContentsDetailed Studies of Individual Globular Clusters.- Detailed Chemical Abundances of Extragalactic Globular Clusters.- Spectroscopic Abundances and Radial Velocities of the Galactic Globular Clusters 2MASS GC01 and 2MASS GC02: Preliminary Results.- Abundance Anomalies in Galactic Globular Clusters – Looking for the Stellar Culprits.- Globular Clusters in the Direction of the Inner Galaxy.- Globular Cluster Research with Astronomical Archives.- Super-He-Rich Populations in Globular Clusters.- Testing the BH 176 and Berkeley 29 Association with GASS/Monoceros.- New Yonsei-Yale (Y 2) Isochrones and Horizontal-Branch Evolutionary Tracks with Helium Enhancements.- Search for Candle Stars in Globular Clusters: Spectroscopic Analysis of Post-AGB Candidates.- The Lack of Binaries Among Hot Horizontal Branch Stars: M80 and NGC5986.- Semi-Empirical Determination of the Mass Distribution of Horizontal Branch Stars in M3.- The Most Massive Clusters.- Globular Clusters, Galactic Nuclei and Supermassive Black Holes.- UCDs – A Mixed Bag of Objects.- Ultra-Compact Dwarf Galaxies and Globular Clusters: A Review of Their Spatial and Dynamical Properties.- The Maximum Mass of Star Clusters.- The Stellar Population of Ultra-Compact Dwarf Galaxies.- News on Ultra-Compact Dwarfs and Blue Globular Clusters.- UCDs and GCs: Structural Differences from HST Imaging.- Ultra-Compact Stellar Systems in the Fornax Galaxy Cluster.- Multi-Colour Imaging of Ultra-Compact Objects in the Fornax Cluster.- Young Star Clusters.- Hierarchical Formation of Galactic Clusters.- Young Massive Clusters – Formation Efficiencies and (Initial) Mass Functions.- The Radii of Thousands of Star Clusters in M51 with HST/ACS.- Extragalactic Star Clusters in Merging Galaxies.- The Environment of Young Massive Clusters.- Star/Cluster Formation in Complexes: Insights from IFUs and HST.- Spectral Evolution of Blue Concentrated Star Clusters in the Large Magellanic Cloud.- Young Star Clusters in the SMC.- Molecular Clouds and Star Formation in the Magellanic System by NANTEN.- Two Star Cluster Populations in NGC 45.- Characterization of Open Cluster Remnants.- HST Photometry of the Binary Globular Cluster Sersic 13N-S in NGC5128[1].- Globular Cluster Systems in Dwarf and Irregular Galaxies.- LMC Cluster Abundances and Kinematics.- Globular Clusters in Dwarf Galaxies.- Globular Clusters in Dwarf and Giant Galaxies.- The Age-Metallicity Relation of the SMC.- Integrated Spectroscopic Analysis of Galactic and Small Magellanic Cloud Clusters.- Variable Stars in the Globular Clusters and in the Field of the Fornax dSph Galaxy.- Physical Parameters of Intermediate-Age LMC Clusters from Modelling of HST CMDs.- RGB Properties of the LMC/SMC Clusters in the Infrared.- WLM-1: A Non-Rotating, Gravitationally Unperturbed, Highly Elliptical Extragalactic Globular Cluster.- Globular Cluster Systems in Spiral Galaxies.- Star Clusters in M33 – Clues to Galaxy Formation and Evolution.- M31 and its Globular Clusters.- IR Integrated Light Colors For Galactic GCs and An Update on Young M31 Globular Clusters.- Nuclear Star Clusters in Edge-on Galaxies.- HST ACS Wide-Field Photometry of the Sombrero Galaxy Globular Cluster System.- Intermediate-Age Globular Clusters in M31.- Metal-Poor Globular Clusters of the Galactic Bulge.- Globular Cluster System and Milky Way Properties Revisited.- RR Lyrae-Based Calibration of the Globular Cluster Luminosity Function.- Globular Cluster Systems in Spiral Galaxies Using ACS Imaging.- Laser Guide Star Imaging of M31 Globulars.- GALEX UV Observations of M31 Globular Clusters.- Integrated Spectroscopy of Galactic Globular Clusters.- Globular Cluster Systems in Early-Type Galaxies.- Globular Cluster Systems: Do They Really Trace Star Formation? (Or Rather: What Mode of Star Formation Do They Trace?).- Globular Clusters in Early Type Galaxies.- Globular Clusters and Galaxy Formation.- Globular Cluster Systems in Giant Ellipticals: New and Old Patterns.- The ACS Virgo Cluster Survey.- Globular Clusters at the Centre of the Fornax Cluster: Tracing Interactions Between Galaxies.- Globular Cluster Bimodality Revisited (and the Globulars-Galaxy Halo Connection).- Globular Cluster Systems, Diffuse Star Clusters, and Host Galaxies in the ACS Virgo Cluster Survey.- Hot Populations in M87 Globular Clusters.- A Subaru/Suprime-Cam Wide-Field Survey of Globular Cluster Populations around M87.- Stellar Populations of Globular Clusters in NGC 1407.- The Globular Cluster System of NGC 5846 Revisited: Colours, Sizes and X-Ray Counterparts.- Globular Cluster Systems in Shell Ellipticals.- GMOS Photometry of Five Globular Cluster Systems: NGC 4649, NGC 3923, NGC 524, NGC 3115 and NGC 3379.- Structural Parameters from Ground-based Observations of Globular Clusters in NGC 5128.- Globular Cluster Populations in Early-Type Galaxies.- The Low-Mass X-Ray Binary Globular Cluster Connection in the ACS Virgo Cluster Survey.- The Globular Cluster System of NGC 5128: Combining Broad-Band Color and Lick Index Analysis.- The Galaxy – Globular Cluster Connection in NGC 3115.- Velocity Dispersions of Bright Globular Clusters in NGC 5128.- Evolution of Cluster Systems and their Host Galaxies.- Imprint of Galaxy Formation and Evolution on Globular Cluster Properties.- Formation of Globular Clusters in Hierarchical Cosmology: ART and Science.- Globular Cluster Formation in Mergers.- The Formation Histories of Metal-Rich and Metal-Poor Globular Clusters.- Globular Cluster System Evolution in Early Type Galaxies.- Star Cluster Evolution: From Young Massive Star Clusters to Old Globulars.- A Wide-Field Survey of the Globular Cluster Systems of Giant Galaxies.- IGCs in the Virgo Cluster.- A New Explanation of Globular Cluster Color Distributions.- Formation of Intracluster and Intercluster Globular Clusters.- The Effect of Giant Molecular Clouds on Star Clusters.- Metal-rich Globular Clusters: An Unaccounted Factor Responsible for Their Formation?.- On the Globular Cluster Color Distributions.- Dynamical Evolution of Star Clusters.- Dissolution of Globular Clusters.- Dynamical Masses of Young Star Clusters: Constraints on the Stellar IMF and Star-Formation Efficiency.- Dynamical Evolution of Rotating Globular Clusters with Embedded Black Holes.- The Dynamical Evolution of Young Clusters and Galactic Implications.- Simulations of Globular Clusters Merging in Galactic Nuclear Regions.- The Origin of the Gaussian Initial Mass Function of Globular Cluster Systems.- Evolution of Globular Cluster Systems.- Tidal Disruption and the Tale of Three Clusters.- Tidal Tails Around Globular Clusters: Are they Good Tracers of Cluster Orbits?.- Modelling the Tidal Tails of NGC 5466.- The Search for Tidal Tails of Globular Clusters: NGC4147.- Internal Rotation of Young Globular Clusters.- Mass Segregation in Young Star Clusters.- Dynamics of Globular Cluster Systems.- Kinematics of Globular Cluster Systems.- Dark Matter in the Elliptical Galaxies NGC 1399 and NGC 4636.- Ages, Abundances, and Kinematics of Globular Clusters in NGC 3379 and NGC 4649 with Gemini/GMOS.- The Dark Halo of NGC 1399 and MOND.- Dynamics of the Globular Cluster System of NGC 5128.- Open Questions in the Globular Cluster – Galaxy Connection.- Open Questions in the Globular Cluster – Galaxy Connection.

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Book SynopsisEssential Astrophysics is a book to learn or teach from, as well as a fundamental reference volume for anyone interested in astronomy and astrophysics. It presents astrophysics from basic principles without requiring any previous study of astronomy or astrophysics. It serves as a comprehensive introductory text, which takes the student through the field of astrophysics in lecture-sized chapters of basic physical principles applied to the cosmos.This one-semester overview will be enjoyed by undergraduate students with an interest in the physical sciences, such as astronomy, chemistry, engineering or physics, as well as by any curious student interested in learning about our celestial science. The mathematics required for understanding the text is on the level of simple algebra, for that is all that is needed to describe the fundamental principles. The text is of sufficient breadth and depth to prepare the interested student for more advanced specialised courses in the future. Astronomical examples are provided throughout the text, to reinforce the basic concepts and physics, and to demonstrate the use of the relevant formulae. In this way, the student learns to apply the fundamental equations and principles to cosmic objects and situations. Astronomical and physical constants and units as well as the most fundamental equations can be found in the appendix. Essential Astrophysics goes beyond the typical textbook by including references to the seminal papers in the field, with further reference to recent applications, results, or specialised literature.Trade ReviewFrom the reviews:“This work fills a unique position in the literature. It is a concrete, middle-level treatment that devotes as much attention to methods of research and observation as it does to results. Here at last is a book in English which bridges the gap between elementary introductory accounts and advanced technical monographs. … It is also a fine book for hobbyists and others with some grounding in astronomy who want to explore these matters in greater depth than elementary texts allow.” (Philosophy, Religion and Science Book Reviews, bookinspections.wordpress.com, May, 2014)“This set of lecture notes on astrophysics discusses the topics that would be taught in an introductory undergraduate class. The text is sufficiently comprehensive to be used as the principle textbook for a lecture course or for self-study. … the references are excellent, enabling those who need more detail to find information quickly. The book will be easy to follow for anyone with a solid background in lower-level undergraduate physics. A valuable acquisition for academic library collections. Summing Up: Highly recommended. Upper-division undergraduates and above.” (A. Spero, Choice, Vol. 51 (6), February, 2014)Table of ContentsList of focus elements.- List of tables.- Preface.- Observing the Universe.- Radiation.- Gravity.- Cosmic Motion.- Moving Particles.- Detecting Atoms in Stars.- Transmutation of the Elements.- What Makes the Sun Shine?.- The Extended Solar Atmosphere.- The Sun Amongst the Stars.- The Material Between the Stars.- Formation of the Stars and their Planets.- Stellar End States.- A Larger, Expanding Universe.- Origin, Life and Destiny of the Observable Universe.- References.- Author index.- Subject index.

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Book SynopsisThis 6th edition of “Tools of Radio Astronomy”, the most used introductory text in radio astronomy, has been revised to reflect the current state of this important branch of astronomy. This includes the use of satellites, low radio frequencies, the millimeter/sub-mm universe, the Cosmic Microwave Background and the increased importance of mm/sub-mm dust emission. Several derivations and presentations of technical aspects of radio astronomy and receivers, such as receiver noise, the Hertz dipole and beam forming have been updated, expanded, re-worked or complemented by alternative derivations. These reflect advances in technology. The wider bandwidths of the Jansky-VLA and long wave arrays such as LOFAR and mm/sub-mm arrays such as ALMA required an expansion of the discussion of interferometers and aperture synthesis. Developments in data reduction algorithms have been included. As a result of the large amount of data collected in the past 20 years, the discussion of solar system radio astronomy, dust emission, and radio supernovae has been revisited. The chapters on spectral line emission have been updated to cover measurements of the neutral hydrogen radiation from the early universe as well as measurements with new facilities. Similarly the discussion of molecules in interstellar space has been expanded to include the molecular and dust emission from protostars and very cold regions. Several worked examples have been added in the areas of fundamental physics, such as pulsars. Both students and practicing astronomers will appreciate this new up-to-date edition of Tools of Radio Astronomy. Trade ReviewAus den Rezensionen zur 6.Auflage: “... Studenten und Absolventen einschlägiger Fachrichtungen ist das Buch auch fur Quereinsteiger und Amateure geeignet, die ernsthaft in dieses Fachgebiet eindringen wollen.“ (in: Funkamateur, Heft 5, 2014)Table of ContentsRadio Astronomical Fundamentals.- ElectromagneticWave Propagation Fundamentals.- Wave Polarization.- Signal Processing and Receivers: Theory.- Practical Receiver Systems.- Fundamentals of Antenna Theory.- Practical Aspects of Filled Aperture Antennas.- Single Dish Observational Methods.- Interferometers and Aperture Synthesis.- Emission Mechanisms of Continuous Radiation.- Some Examples of Thermal and Nonthermal Radio Sources.- Spectral Line Fundamentals.- Line Radiation from Atoms.- Radio Recombination Lines.- Overview of Molecular Basics.- Molecules in Interstellar Space.- Some Useful Vector Relations & Fourier Transforms.- The Van Vleck Clipping Correction: One Bit Quantization.- Conventional Derivation of Square Law Detector Response & Receiver Noise.- The Reciprocity Theorem.- Filled Aperture Antennas.- The Hankel Transform.- Lists of Calibration Radio Sources.- The Mutual Coherence Function and van Cittert-Zernike Theorem.- Bibliography.- Index.

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Book SynopsisFundamental Astronomy is a well-balanced, comprehensive introduction to classical and modern astronomy. While emphasizing both the astronomical concepts and the underlying physical principles, the text provides a sound basis for more profound studies in the astronomical sciences. This is the fifth edition of the successful undergraduate textbook and reference work. It has been extensively modernized and extended in the parts dealing with extragalactic astronomy and cosmology. You will also find augmented sections on the solar system and extrasolar planets as well as a new chapter on astrobiology. Long considered a standard text for physical science majors, Fundamental Astronomy is also an excellent reference work for dedicated amateur astronomers.Trade Review"For the book to reach the fourth edition, it must be hitting a niche in the market. The preface to the first edition in 1987 identifies that market as a ‘university textbook for a first course in astronomy’ which is also suited for serious amateurs who ‘find the popular texts too trivial’. In my opinion, that description from the original preface is ‘spot on’ and makes this volume a must-buy for any serious amateur looking for a comprehensive overview of matters astronomical." (Roger Feasey, Auckland Astronomical Society Journal, March 2004) "This work remains a most excellent textbook for the student as well as the dedicated amateur astronomer." (ORION 62/321, ) "If you are looking for a solid undergraduate text outlining the physics which underpins so much of modern astronomy then this book will be a very useful addition to your personal library." (Astronomy Now, May 2004) "… The wide range of expertise gives the book an authority that would be almost impossible for a single-author text ... There are other aids to the reader: worked examples ... starred sections in small print take the inquisitive reader beyond the general level of the book." (Nature) "… Unique among available texts and has so much to offer ... No one involved in astronomy teaching will want to be without a copy." (The Physics Teacher) "Gives a solid foundation to the basic ideas of astronomy in a clear and accessible fashion … Fundamental ideas are developed clearly and applied to real problems, and solutions are worked out." (Sky & Telescope) From the reviews of the fourth edition: "This book will well serve its readership which includes both undergraduate physical science and mathematics students … . covers all the important subjects of an introductory course in astronomy. … is beautifully illustrated with many black and white and color photographs, which will be most appealing … . they have produced a book that will prove useful for many years … . As such it is highly recommended … to the general reader who wants to be pleasantly and highly informed about astronomy." (Fernande Grandjean, Gary J. Long, Physicalia, Vol. 26(1), 2004) "The book remains a calculus-based textbook and reference source containing many exercises … for the proper comprehension of the subjects treated. … This work remains a most excellent textbook for the student as well as the dedicated amateur astronomer. … can considerably widen the vision of the student … ." (Noël Cramer, ORIAN-Zeitschrift der Schweizerischen Astronomischen Gesellschaft Vol. 62(321), 2004) "Fundamental Astronomy is both the title and an excellent description of the content … . is also suited for serious amateurs who "find the popular texts too trivial". In my opinion … this volume a must-buy for any serious amateur looking for a comprehensive overview of matters astronomical. … Its usefulness for education purposes is enhanced by worked examples in each section followed by exercises." (AAS Journal, March, 2004) "This is the 4th edition of this well known and well tested undergraduate-level text on astronomy. … All the derivations are well done and the problems selected for student work are interesting and will undoubtedly help the student in his or her studies. … if you are looking for a solid undergraduate text outlining the physics which underpins so much of modern astronomy then this book will be a very useful addition to your personal library." (Kevin P. Marshall, Astronomy Now, May, 2004) From the reviews of the fifth edition: “This textbook, suitable for a university first course in astronomy, is the outgrowth of a long and outstanding astronomical tradition in Finland, and the result of an extensive collaborative effort, which included also teaching and interaction with many people. … I highly recommend this book for class use … it will be useful for professionals as well.” (Bruno Bertotti, Prometeo, Vol. 24 (3-4), 2008)Table of ContentsSpherical Astronomy.- Observations and Instruments.- Photometric Concepts and Magnitudes.- Radiation Mechanisms.- Celestial Mechanics.- The Solar System.- Stellar Spectra.- Binary Stars and Stellar Masses.- Stellar Structure.- Stellar Evolution.- The Sun.- Variable Stars.- Compact Stars.- The Interstellar Medium.- Star Clusters and Associations.- The Milky Way.- Galaxies.- Cosmology.- Astrobiology.

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Book SynopsisThe outstanding question in astronomy at the turn of the twentieth century was: What are the stars and why are they as they are? In this volume, the story of how the answer to this fundamental question was unravelled is narrated in an informal style, with emphasis on the underlying physics. This book discusses recent developments in the context of discussing the nature of the stars, their stability and the source of the energy they radiate. Reading this book will get young students excited about the presently unfolding revolution in astronomy and the challenges that await them in the world of physics, engineering and technology. General readers will also find the book appealing for its highly accessible narrative of the physics of stars.Table of ContentsThe Present Revolution in Astronomy: An Overview.- What Are the Stars?.- Stars as Globes of Gas.- Eddington’s Theory of the Stars.- Why Are the Stars as They Are?.- Energy Generation in the Stars.- Sounds of the Sun.- The Smoking Gun is Finally Found.

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Book SynopsisThe existence of neutron stars was not only a brilliant theoretical prediction, but also one of the most unexpected and astonishing discoveries of all heavenly bodies. Twenty-five years after the remarkable event of their discovery, neutron stars, which are the densest, the most strongly magnetized, and the most rapid­ ly rotating bodies in the Galaxy, remain objects of intense interest. This book is a revised and enlarged version of the original Russian edition. The last five years were marked by the discovery of a supernova in the closest galaxy and dozens of X-ray sources and millisecond pulsars, which apparently confirm the validity of the basic ideas underlying these discoveries. The author has concentrated on the astrophysical manifestations of neutron stars, which are believed mainly to be associated with the nature of their interaction with their surroundings. Naturally, this approach does not leave much room for a detailed description of the internal structure of these stars. Fortunately, there exists an excellent monograph by S. L. Shapiro and S. A. Teukolsky (Black Holes, White Dwarfs, and Neutron Stars, Wiley, New York 1985) which deals mainly with the purely physical problems. Moreover, the publication of such a book in the West partly makes amends for the lack of information about the work being done by Soviet scientists in this field.Table of Contents1. Theoretical and Observational Principles of the Astrophysics of Neutron Stars.- 1.1 Prediction.- 1.2 Accretion.- 1.3 Rotation and Magnetic Field.- 1.4 Radiopulsars.- 1.5 New Ideas.- 1.6 X-Ray Pulsars.- 1.7 X-Ray Bursters.- 1.8 Bursts and Other Sources of Gamma Rays.- 1.9 General View.- 2. Structure of Neutron Stars.- 2.1 Equilibrium of Stars.- 2.2 Exact Equilibrium Equations for Cold Stars.- 2.3 Physical Conditions Inside Neutron Stars.- 2.4 Parameters of Neutron Stars.- 2.5 Mass of Neutron Stars.- 2.6 Rotational Effects.- 3. Fluid Dynamics of Accretion.- 3.1 Spherically Symmetric Accretion.- 3.2 The Role of Radiation and Ejection.- 3.3 Spherical Accretion to a Neutron Star Without a Magnetic Field.- 3.4 Capture of Matter by a Moving Star.- 3.5 Fluid Dynamics of Cylindrical Accretion.- 3.6 Disk Accretion.- 3.7 Luminosity and Spectrum of Accretion Disks.- 3.8 Supercritical Disk Accretion.- 3.9 Accretion in Binary Systems.- 3.9.1 Overflow Through the Inner Lagrangian Point.- 3.9.2 Accretion from Stellar Wind.- 3.10 Two-Stream Accretion.- 3.11 Accretion of Magnetic Fields.- 4. Classification of Neutron Stars.- 4.1 Magnetic Dipole.- 4.2 Stopping Radius.- 4.3 Stopping Radius in the Supercritical Case.- 4.4 The Effect of a Magnetic Field.- 4.5 Gravimagnetic Parameter.- 4.6 Corotation Radius.- 4.7 Nomenclature.- 4.8 Critical Periods. The p-y and p-L Diagrams.- 5. Boundaries. Magnetospheres of Slowly Rotating Neutron Stars.- 5.1 Physical Conditions in the Alfvén Zone.- 5.2 Formulation of the Problem.- 5.3 Simple Configurations.- 5.4 Magnetosphere in Spherically Symmetric Accretion.- 5.5 Pascal’s Pressure Law.- 5.5.1 Two-Dimensional Solutions.- 5.5.2 Three-Dimensional Solutions.- 5.6 A Dipole Confined by an Ideally Conducting Disk.- 5.6.1 Two-Dimensional Model.- 5.6.2 Three-Dimensional Problem.- 5.6.3 Dipole Rotation.- 5.7 Magnetosphere in a Plane-parallel Plasma Flow.- 5.7.1 Two-Dimensional Solution.- 5.7.2 Three-Dimensional Solution.- 5.8 Two-Stream Accretion.- 6. Accreting Neutron Stars.- 6.1 Boundary Stability.- 6.1.1 Spherically Symmetric Accretion.- 6.1.2 Disk Accretion onto a Magnetized Neutron Star.- 6.1.3 Torsion of an Accretion Disk by Magnetic Forces.- 6.1.4 Magnetosphere Boundary Stability for Two-Stream Accretion.- 6.2 The Polar Column.- 6.3 Spin-up, Spin-down and Induced Precession of Accreting Stars.- 6.3.1 Spin-up Torque.- 6.3.2 Spin-down Torque.- 6.3.3 Analytical Model of Torques Applied to a Magnetized Accreting Star.- 6.3.4 Equilibrium Period.- 6.4 Observed Properties of X-Ray Pulsars.- 6.5 Energy Parameters of Pulsars and Transport of Matter in Binary Systems.- 6.6 Spectrum and Magnetic Fields.- 6.7 Periods of X-Ray Pulsars and Their Variation.- 6.7.1 Equilibrium of X-Ray Pulsars.- 6.7.2 Magnetic Fields of X-Ray Pulsars.- 6.7.3 Reasons Behind the Average Spin-up of X-Ray Pulsars.- 6.7.4 Rapid Fluctuation of Periods and Internal Structure of Neutron Stars.- 6.8 Variability of X-Ray Sources. Transients.- 6.9 Generation of Relativistic Particles.- 6.10 X-Ray Bursters.- 6.10.1 Localization and Spatial Distribution.- 6.10.2 Periodic Variations of X-Ray Flux. X-Ray Eclipses.- 6.10.3 Luminosity and Spectra of Bursters.- 6.11 Nuclear Burning at the Surface of Neutron Stars. Spherically Symmetric Model.- 6.12 Accretion to X-Ray Bursters.- 6.12.1 Accretion for ? Stars.- 7. The “Propeller” Regime.- 7.1 Quasistatic Shells.- 7.1.1 Supersonic Propeller.- 7.1.2 Subsonic Propeller.- 7.1.3 Very Rapid Propeller.- 7.1.4 Nongravitating Propeller.- 7.2 Spinning-down in the Boundary Layer.- 7.3 Two-Stream Flow Formation due to the Propeller Effect.- 7.3.1 Stationary Flow from Disks.- 7.3.2 Time-Dependent Solution.- 7.4 Dead Disks and Accumulator Disks.- 7.5 Nonstationary Disk Accretion. Model of Transient X-Ray Sources.- 7.6 Relativistic Propeller.- 7.7 Objects That Can Become Propellers.- 7.7.1 Binary Systems.- 7.7.2 Single Neutron Stars.- 8. Ejecting Stars.- 8.1 Observed Characteristics of Radiopulsars.- 8.1.1 Periods and Their Variation.- 8.1.2 Pulse Structure.- 8.1.3 Spectrum and Luminosity.- 8.1.4 Distribution of Pulsars in Space.- 8.1.5 Spatial Velocity of Radiopulsars.- 8.1.6 Pulsars and Binary Systems.- 8.2 Radiopulsars as Ejecting Neutron Stars.- 8.3 Pulsar Electrodynamics and Generation of Relativistic Particles.- 8.3.1 Vacuum Approximation.- 8.3.2 Magnetosphere in the Presence of Plasma.- 8.4 Mechanisms of Radiation.- 8.5 Caverns Around Neutron Stars.- 8.5.1 Caverns in Binary Systems.- 8.5.2 Caverns Around a Single Neutron Star.- 8.5.3 Effect of Relativistic Wind on Accretion Flow Parameters.- 8.6 Change in Radiopulsar Period.- 8.6.1 Spin-down of Pulsars and Their Magnetic Fields.- 8.6.2 Spin-up Episodes and Internal Structure of Neutron Stars.- 8.7 Evolution of Radiopulsars.- 8.7.1 Origin and Age of Pulsars.- 8.7.2 Evolution of the Radiopulsar Period.- 8.8 Spatial Velocities of Radiopulsars.- 8.9 Ejecting Stars in Binary Systems.- 8.9.1 Radiopulsars Forming Pairs with Degenerate Stars.- 8.9.2 “Reflection” Effect.- 8.9.3 Observational Evidence of the Existence of Ejecting Stars in Binary Systems.- 9. Supercritical Regimes.- 9.1 Superaccretor.- 9.1.1 Accretion Pattern.- 9.1.2 Neutrino Pulsar.- 9.1.3 Spin-up and Spin-down.- 9.2 Superejectors and Superpropellers.- 9.3 Is SS 433 a Superaccretor?.- 9.4 Other Candidates.- 10. Stars with an Anomalously Low Value of Gravimagnetic Parameter.- 10.1 Georotators.- 10.2 Binary Magnetic Systems (Magnetors).- 11. Evolution of Stars.- 11.1 Normal Stars.- 11.1.1 Single Stars.- 11.1.2 Binary Stars.- 11.2 Evolution of Neutron Stars.- 11.2.1 Evolution Equation.- 11.2.2 Statistical Description of the Ensemble of Neutron Stars.- 11.3 Neutron Star Tracks.- 11.4 Numerical Simulation of the Joint Evolution of Normal and Neutron Stars.- 11.4.1 Computational Method.- 11.4.2 Evolutionary Tracks.- 11.4.3 Simulation of X-Ray Pulsars (Stage IIA) and the Choice of Optimal Parameters.- 11.4.4 Abundance of Different Types of Systems in the Galaxy.- 11.4.5 Physical Characteristics of Neutron Stars at Various Stages of Evolution.- 11.4.6 Two Types of Radiopulsars.- 11.5 Possible Candidates.- 11.5.1 “Runaway” Stars.- 11.5.2 The SS 433 Object.- 11.5.3 “Single” Wolf-Rayet Stars.- 11.5.4 Collapse Anisotropy.- 11.5.5 Other Numerical Models.- Magnetohydrodynamic Instabilities.- Rayleigh-Taylor (RT) Instability.- Commutation Instability.- References.

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Book SynopsisIt would seem that any specialist in plasma physics studying a medium in which the interaction between particles is as distance-dependent as the inter­ action between stars and other gravitating masses would assert that the role of collective effects in the dynamics of gravitating systems must be decisive. However, among astronomers this point of view has been recog­ nized only very recently. So, comparatively recently, serious consideration has been devoted to theories of galactic spiral structure in which the dominant role is played by the orbital properties of individual stars rather than collec­ tive effects. In this connection we would like to draw the reader's attention to a difference in the scientific traditions of plasma physicists and astrono­ mers, whereby the former have explained the delay of the onset of controlled thermonuclear fusion by the "intrigues" of collective processes in the plasma, while many a generation of astronomers were calculating star motions, solar and lunar eclipses, and a number of other fine effects for many years ahead by making excellent use of only the laws of Newtonian mechanics. Therefore, for an astronomer, it is perhaps not easy to agree with the fact that the evolution of stellar systems is controlled mainly by collective effects, and the habitual methods of theoretical mechanics III astronomy must make way for the method of self-consistent fields.Table of Contents(Volume I).- § 1. Basic Concepts and Equations of Theory.- § 2. Equilibrium States of Collisionless Gravitating Systems.- § 3. Small Oscillations and Stability.- §4. Jeans Instability of a One—Component Uniform Medium.- §5. Jeans Instability of a Multicomponent Uniform Medium.- 5.1. Basic Theorem (on the Stability of a Multicomponent System with Components at Rest).- 5.2. Four Limiting Cases for a Two—Component Medium.- 5.3. Table of Jeans Instabilities of a Uniform Two—Component Medium.- 5.4. General Case of n Components.- §6. Non—Jeans Instabilities.- § 7. Qualitative Discussion of the Stability of Spherical, Cylindrical (and Disk—Shaped) Systems with Respect to Radial Perturbations.- I Theory.- I Equilibrium and Stability of a Nonrotating Flat Gravitating Layer.- § 1. Equilibrium States of a Collisionless Flat Layer.- § 2. Gravitational (Jeans) Instability of the Layer.- § 3. Anisotropic (Fire—Hose) Instability of a Collisionless Flat Layer.- 3.1. Qualitative Considerations.- 3.2. Derivation of the Dispersion Equation for Bending Perturbations of a Thin Layer.- 3.3. Fire—Hose Instability of a Highly Anisotropic Flat Layer.- 3.4. Analysis of the Dispersion Equation.- 3.5. Additional Remarks.- § 4. Derivation of Integra—Differential Equations for Normal Modes of a Flat Gravitating Layer.- § 5. Symmetrical Perturbations of a Flat Layer with an Isotropic Distribution Function Near the Stability Boundary.- § 6. Perpendicular Oscillations of a Homogeneous Collisionless Layer.- 6.1. Derivation of the Characteristic Equation for Eigenfrequencies.- 6.2. Stability of the Model.- 6.3. Permutational Modes.- 6.4. Time—Independent Perturbations (? = 0).- Problems.- II Equilibrium and Stability of a Collisionless Cylinder.- §1. Equilibrium Cylindrical Configurations.- § 2. Jeans Instability of a Cylinder with Finite Radius.- 2.1. Dispersion Equation for Eigenfrequencies of Axial-Symmetrical Perturbations of a Cylinder with Circular Orbits of Particles.- 2.2. Branches of Axial—Symmetrical Oscillations of a Rotating Cylinder with Maxwellian Distribution of Particles in.- 2.3. Longitudinal Velocities.- 2.4. Oscillative Branches of the Rotating Cylinder with a Jackson Distribution Function (in Longitudinal Velocities).- 2.5. Axial—Symmetrical Perturbations of Cylindrical Models of a More General Type.- § 3. Nonaxial Perturbations of a Collisionless Cylinder.- 3.1. The Long—Wave Fire-Hose Instability.- 3.2. Nonaxial Perturbations of a Cylinder with Circular Particle Orbits 100§ 4. Stability of a Cylinder with Respect to Flute—like Perturbations.- § 5. Local Analysis of the Stability of Cylinders (Flute—like Perturbations).- 5.1. Dispersion Equation for Model (2), § 1.- 5.2. Maxwellian Distribution Function.- § 6. Comparison with Oscillations of an Incompressible Cylinder.- 6.1. Flute—like Perturbations (kz = 0).- § 7. Flute—like Oscillations of a Nonuniform Cylinder with Circular Orbits of Particles.- Problems.- III Equilibrium and Stability of Collisionless Spherically Symmetrical Systems.- § 1. Equilibrium Distribution Functions.- § 2. Stability of Systems with an Isotropic Particle Velocity Distribution.- 2.1. The General Variational Principle for Gravitating Systems with the Isotropic Distribution of Particles in Velocities (f0 = f0(E), f’0 = df0|dE ? 0).- 2.2. Sufficient Condition of Stability.- 2.3. Other Theorems about Stability. Stability with Respect to Nonradial Perturbations.- 2.4. Variational Principle for Radial Perturbations.- 2.5. Hydrodynamical Analogy.- 2.6. On the Stability of Systems with Distribution Functions That Do Not Satisfy the Condition f’0 (E) ? 0.- § 3. Stability of Systems of Gravitating Particles Moving On Circular Trajectories.- 3.1. Stability of a Uniform Sphere.- 3.2. Stability of a Homogeneous System of Particles with Nearly Circular Orbits.- 3.3. Stability of a Homogeneous Sphere with Finite Angular Momentum.- 3.4. Stability of Inhomogeneous Systems.- § 4. Stability of Systems of Gravitating Particles Moving in Elliptical Orbits.- 4.1. Stability of a Sphere with Arbitrary Elliptical Particle Orbits.- 4.2. Instability of a Rotating Freeman Sphere.- § 5. Stability of Systems with Radial Trajectories of Particles.- 5.1. Linear Stability Theory.- 5.2. Simulation of a Nonlinear Stage of Evolution.- § 6. Stability of Spherically Symmetrical Systems of General Form.- 6.1. Series of the Idlis Distribution Functions.- 6.2. First Series of Camm Distribution Functions (Generalized Poly tropes).- 6.3. Shuster’s Model in the Phase Description.- §7. Discussion of the Results.- Problems.- IV Equilibrium and Stability of Collisionless Ellipsoidal Systems.- § 1. Equilibrium Distribution Functions.- 1.1 Freeman’s Ellipsoidal Models.- 1.2. “Hot” Models of Collisionless Ellipsoids of Revolution.- § 2. Stability of a Three—Axial Ellipsoid and an Elliptical Disk.- 2.1. Stability of a Three-Axial Ellipsoid.- 2.2. Stability of Freeman Elliptical Disks.- § 3. Stability of Two—Axial Collisionless Ellipsoidal Systems.- 3.1. Stability of Freeman’s Spheroids.- 3.2. Peebles—Ostriker Stability Criterion. Stability of Uniform Ellipsoids, “Hot” in the Plane of Rotation.- 3.3. The Fire-Hose Instability of Ellipsoidal Stellar Systems.- 3.4. Secular and Dynamical Instability. Characteristic Equation for Eigenfrequencies of Oscillations of Maclaurin Ellipsoids.- Problems.- V Equilibrium and Stability of Flat Gravitating Systems.- § 1. Equilibrium States of Flat Gaseous and Collisionless Systems.- 1.3. Systems with Circular Particle Orbits.- 1.4. Plasma Systems with a Magnetic Field.- 1.5. Gaseous Systems.- 1.6. “Hot” Collisionless Systems.- § 2. Stability of a “Cold” Rotating Disk.- 2.1. Membrane Oscillations of the Disk.- 2.2. Oscillations in the Plane of the Disk.- § 3. Stability of a Plasma Disk with a Magnetic Field.- 3.1. Qualitative Derivation of the Stability Condition.- 3.2. Variational Principle.- 3.3. Short—Wave Approximation.- 3.4. Numerical Analysis of a Specific Model.- § 4. Stability of a “Hot” Rotating Disk.- 4.1. Oscillations in the Plane of the Disk.- 4.2. Bending Perturbations.- 4.3. Methods of the Stability Investigation of General Collisionless Disk Systems.- 4.4. Exact Spectra of Small Perturbations.- 4.5. Global Instabilities of Gaseous Disks. Comparison of Stability Properties of Gaseous and Stellar Disks.- Problems.- References.- Additional References.

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