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Books > Science & Mathematics > Astronomy, space & time > General
Photopolarimetric remote sensing is vital in fields as diverse as
medical diagnostics, astrophysics, atmospheric science,
environmental monitoring and military intelligence. The areas
considered here include: radiative transfer; dynamic systems;
backscatter polarization; biological systems; astrophysical
phenomena; comets; and instrumentation. Subtopics include
observational information including determining morphology and
chemistry, light-scattering models, and characterization
methodologies. While this introductory text highlights the latest
advances in this multi-disciplinary topic, it is also a reference
guide for the advanced researcher.
The aim of the VIRGO investigation (Variability of solar IRradiance
and Gravity Oscillations) on SOHO (SOlar and Heliospheric
Observatory) is to determine the characteristics of pressure and
internal gravity oscillations by observing irradiance and radiance
variations, to measure the solar total and spectral irradiance and
to quantify their variability over periods of days to the duration
of the mission. VIRGO contains two different active-cavity
radiometers for monitoring the sol- ar 'constant' (DIARAD and
PM06-V), two three-channel sunphotometers (SPM) for the measurement
of the spectral irradiance at 402, 500, and 862 nm with a bandwidth
of 5 nm, and a low-resolution imager (Luminosity Oscillation
Imager, LOI) with 12 'scientific' and 4 guiding pixels, for
measuring the radiance dis- tribution over the solar disk: at 500
nm. The instrumentation has been described in detail by Frohlich et
al. (1995). In addition, the observed in-flight performance and
operational aspects of the irradiance observations are described by
Frohlich et al. (1997), and those of the LOI by Appourchaux et al.
(1997).
The book consists of four Chapters. Chapter 1 shortly describes
main properties of space plasmas and primary CR, different types of
CR interactions with space plasmas components (matter, photons, and
frozen in magnetic fields). Chapter 2 considers the problem of CR
propagation in space plasmas described by the kinetic equation and
different types of diffusion approximations (diffusion in momentum
space and in pitch-angle space, anisotropic diffusion, anomaly CR
diffusion and compound diffusion, the influence of magnetic clouds
on CR propagation, non-diffusive CR particle pulse transport).
Chapter 3 is devoted to CR non-linear effects in space plasmas
caused by CR pressure and CR kinetic stream instabilities with the
generation of Alfven turbulence (these effects are important in
galaxies, in the Heliosphere, in CR and gamma-ray sources and in
the processes of CR acceleration). considered: the development of
the Fermi statistical mechanism, acceleration in the turbulent
plasma, Alfven mechanism of magnetic pumping, induction mechanisms,
acceleration during magnetic collapse and compression, cumulative
acceleration mechanism near the zero lines of a magnetic field,
acceleration in shear flows, shock-wave diffusion (regular)
acceleration. The book ends with a list providing more than 1,300
full references, a discussion on future developments and unsolved
problems, as well as Object and Author indexes. This book will be
useful for experts and students in CR research, Astrophysics and
Geophysics, and in Space Physics.
General relativity or the general theory of relativity is the
geometric theory of gravitation published by Albert Einstein in
1915. It is the current description of gravitation in modern
physics. General relativity generalises special relativity and
Newton's law of universal gravitation, providing a unified
description of gravity as a geometric property of space and time,
or spacetime. In particular, the curvature of spacetime is directly
related to the four-momentum (mass-energy and linear momentum) of
whatever matter and radiation are present. The relation is
specified by the Einstein field equations, a system of partial
differential equations. Einstein's theory has important
astrophysical implications. For example, it implies the existence
of black holes-regions of space in which space and time are
distorted in such a way that nothing, not even light, can escape-as
an end-state for massive stars. There is evidence that such stellar
black holes as well as more massive varieties of black hole are
responsible for the intense radiation emitted by certain types of
astronomical objects such as active galactic nuclei or
microquasars.
The chief argument of this book, first published in 1990, is that
Ibn al-Haytham's On the Configuration of the World is a
non-technical expose of basic astronomical teachings: it was
written in particular for those whose main interests were in the
areas of philosophy and natural science and who, accordingly, had
an interest in relating the mathematical devices employed by
professional astronomers to the heavenly bodies mentioned in the
philosophical literature. However, the primary reason for this
publication is not the advancement of this thesis, but rather the
presentation of the medieval texts themselves, normally so
inaccessible to scholars and students alike.
In February 2016, physicists announced the breakthrough discovery
of the gravitational waves, which were predicted by Albert Einstein
in his century-old theory of General Relativity. These
gravitational waves were emitted as a result of the collision of
two massive black holes that happened about 1.3 billion years ago.
They were discovered at the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave
Observatory (LIGO) in the United States and thus marked a new
milestone for physics. However, it remains unclear to physicists
how the gravitational interaction can be included in the Standard
Theory of particle physics which describes the electroweak and the
strong interactions in our universe.In this volume are the
lectures, given by the speakers at the conference on cosmology and
particle physics. The discussed topics range from gravitational
waves to cosmology, dark matter, dark energy and particle physics
beyond the Standard Theory.
Since several decades, comets have been considered as key witnesses
of solar system formation. Their nature has been explored using the
modern arsenal of Earth- and space-based observations, and they
hold a central place as dynamical arbiters of the planetary system
in the new paradigm of solar system evolution known as the Nice
Model. Thus, they have the potential to test the various ideas,
using the detailed data recently gathered by the ESA/Rosetta
mission. This requires an understanding of their origin and
evolution, which form the subject of the present book. All the
relevant issues are covered, describing both the background and the
current frontiers of research.
This book is an attempt to demystify the activities of a celestial
object such as the Sun appealing to basic physics already available
to high school students. Building on simple logic, the contents
begin with measurements of the gross properties of the Sun like
size (volume) and mass from which the average density of solar
material is shown to be almost equal to water's density. Then the
temperature is obtained using the colour of sunlight, and the
gravitational force is discussed to indicate how the solar material
is compressed at the centre of the Sun leading to heating which
further causes nuclear reactions. The roles of all the forces of
nature, viz. strong, weak, electromagnetic and gravitation are
shown in the construction of the Sun. The generation of magnetic
fields by solar rotation and the eruptions of solar atmospheric
material are also included.To further demystify the methods of
obtaining all such facts about the Sun, a chapter is solely devoted
to the different kinds of solar telescopes operating at different
wavelengths and also at different locations ranging from outer
space to deep underground, where solar neutrino flux is measured.
The entire discussion is interspersed with historical encounters
between giants of science to show the human face of scientific
research.
This is a revisit of a radical theory of cometary panspermia and
cosmic life that was first proposed by Chandra Wickramasinghe and
the late Sir Fred Hoyle in 1982. In its earliest form the theory of
cosmic life started off as a speculation in 1974 after the first
discovery of complex organic molecules and polymeric dust in
interstellar space. The speculation soon developed into a serious
scientific theory, predictions of which were available to be
verified or falsified. Over four decades there have been a
multitude of tests and predictions of the theory being positive in
vindicating the proposition of life as a cosmic rather than a
purely terrestrial phenomenon. A paradigm shift of enormous
magnitude and significance is to be expected.The ideas and theories
described in this book would have a far-reaching influence
affecting the future development of diverse branches of science.
This book will take the story of astronomy on from where Allan
Chapman left it in Stargazers, and bring it almost up to date, with
the developments and discoveries of the last three centuries. He
covers the big names - Halley, Hooke, Herschel, Hubble and Hoyle;
and includes the women who pushed astronomy forward, from Caroline
Herschel to the Victorian women astronomers. He includes the big
discoveries and the huge ideas, from the Milky War, to the Big
Bang, the mighty atom, and the question of life on other planets.
And he brings in the contributions made in the US, culminating in
their race with the USSR to get a man on the moon, before turning
to the explosion of interest in astronomy that was pioneered by Sir
Patrick Moore and The Sky at Night.
Field theory is an important topic in theoretical physics, which is
studied in the physical and physico-mathematical departments of
universities. Therefore, lecturers are faced with the urgent task
of not only providing students with information about the subject,
but also to help them master the material at a deep qualitative
level, by presenting the specific features of general approaches to
the statement and the solution of problems in theoretical physics.
One of the ways to study field theory is the practical one, where
the students can deepen their knowledge of the theoretical material
and develop problem-solving skills. This book includes a concise
theoretical summary of the main branches of field theory and
electrodynamics, worked examples, and some problems for the student
to solve.The book is written for students of theoretical and
applied physics, and corresponds to the curricula of the
theoretical courses 'Field theory' and 'Electrodynamics' for
physics undergraduates. It can also be useful for students of other
disciplines, in particular, those in which physics is one of the
base subjects.
In order to analyze the light of cosmic objects, particularly at
extremely great distances, spectroscopy is the workhorse of
astronomy. In the era of very large telescopes, long-term
investigations are mainly performed with small professional
instruments. Today they can be done using self-designed
spectrographs and highly efficient CCD cameras, without the need
for large financial investments. This book explains the basic
principles of spectroscopy, including the fundamental optical
constraints and all mathematical aspects needed to understand the
working principles in detail. It covers the complete theoretical
and practical design of standard and Echelle spectrographs. Readers
are guided through all necessary calculations, enabling them to
engage in spectrograph design. The book also examines data
acquisition with CCD cameras and fiber optics, as well as the
constraints of specific data reduction and possible sources of
error. In closing it briefly highlights some main aspects of the
research on massive stars and spectropolarimetry as an extension of
spectroscopy. The book offers a comprehensive introduction to
spectroscopy for students of physics and astronomy, as well as a
valuable resource for amateur astronomers interested in learning
the principles of spectroscopy and spectrograph design.
This textbook provides an introduction to gravitational lensing,
which has become an invaluable tool in modern astrophysics, with
applications that range from finding planets orbiting distant stars
to understanding how dark matter and dark energy conspired to form
the cosmic structures we see today. Principles of Gravitational
Lensing begins with Einstein's prediction that gravity bends light,
and shows how that fundamental idea has spawned a rich field of
study over the past century. The gravitational deflection of light
was first detected by Eddington during a solar eclipse in May 1919,
launching Einstein and his theory of relativity into public view.
Yet the possibility of using the phenomenon to unlock mysteries of
the Universe seemed remote, given the technology of the day.
Theoretical work was carried out sporadically over the next six
decades, but only with the discovery of the system Q0957+561 in
1979 was gravitational lensing transformed from a curiosity of
general relativity into a practical observational tool. This book
describes how the three subfields known as strong lensing, weak
lensing, and microlensing have grown independently but become
increasingly intertwined. Drawing on their research experience,
Congdon and Keeton begin with the basic physics of light bending,
then present the mathematical foundations of gravitational lensing,
building up to current research topics in a clear and systematic
way. Relevant background material from physics and mathematics is
included, making the book self-contained. The derivations and
explanations are supplemented by exercises designed to help
students master the theoretical concepts as well as the methods
that drive current research. An extensive bibliography guides those
wishing to delve more deeply into particular areas of interest.
Principles of Gravitational Lensing is ideal for advanced students
and seasoned researchers looking to penetrate this thriving subject
and even contribute research of their own.
Beginning with the famous Olber's paradox, paradoxes such as the
missing mass, dark energy, baryon to photon ratio and cosmic
zero-point energy are examined in detail. The Heisenberg-Lemaitre's
units, based on the total enormous but finite mass of the Universe,
are introduced and rigorous solutions of Einstein's cosmological
equations for an open Universe with cosmological constant are
obtained. Energy conservation after the Big Bang is consistently
required.This book discusses such paradoxes in depth with physical
and logical content and historical perspective, and has not too
technical content in order to serve a wide audience. In the second
edition, the content is updated and new sections are added.
Beginning with the famous Olber's paradox, paradoxes such as the
missing mass, dark energy, baryon to photon ratio and cosmic
zero-point energy are examined in detail. The Heisenberg-Lemaitre's
units, based on the total enormous but finite mass of the Universe,
are introduced and rigorous solutions of Einstein's cosmological
equations for an open Universe with cosmological constant are
obtained. Energy conservation after the Big Bang is consistently
required.This book discusses such paradoxes in depth with physical
and logical content and historical perspective, and has not too
technical content in order to serve a wide audience. In the second
edition, the content is updated and new sections are added.
Stoicheiosis Astronomike ('Elements of Astronomy') is a late
Byzantine comprehensive introduction to Astronomy. It was written
by an outstanding figure in Byzantine culture and politics, who
served also as prime minister. This volume makes available for the
first time a large part of its astronomical contents, offering the
original text with an English translation, accompanied by an
introduction and analysis.This book describes the celestial
spheres, the rotation of the planets, and especially the apparent
trajectory of the sun with its uniform and anomalous rotations,
which are used to determine the length of the year. Metochites
proposed a new starting date for the calendar (6th of October 1283)
specifying the position of the sun on that date. The work revived
the interest in studies of Ptolemaic astronomy as attested by
numerous annotations in the margins of the manuscripts.Besides its
astronomical content there are statements on the epistemological
method and other issues elucidating the spirit of that age. It will
be of interest as an introduction to Byzantine astronomy for
historians of science and philosophy, for astronomers, and those
interested in the development of calendars.
The culmination of many years of research, this book discusses ancient and medieval eclipse observations and their importance in studying Earth's past rotation. This is the first major book on this subject in twenty years. The author has specialized for many years in the interpretation of early astronomical records and their application to problems in modern astronomy. The book contains an in-depth discussion of numerous eclipse records from Babylon, China, Europe and the Arab lands. The author provides translations of almost every record studied. He shows that although tides play a dominant long-term role in producing variations in Earth's rate of rotation--causing a gradual increase in the length of the day--there are significant and variable nontidal changes in opposition to the main trend. This book is intended for geophysicists, astronomers (especially those with an interest in history), historians and orientalists.
This book describes detection techniques used to search for and
analyze gravitational waves (GW). It covers the whole domain of GW
science, starting from the theory and ending with the experimental
techniques (both present and future) used to detect them.The
theoretical sections of the book address the theory of general
relativity and of GW, followed by the theory of GW detection. The
various sources of GW are described as well as the methods used to
analyse them and to extract their physical parameters. It includes
an analysis of the consequences of GW observations in terms of
astrophysics as well as a description of the different detectors
that exist and that are planned for the future.With the recent
announcement of GW detection and the first results from LISA
Pathfinder, this book will allow non-specialists to understand the
present status of the field and the future of gravitational wave
science.
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