Exploring the X-ray Universe: Edition 2

Frederick D. Seward · Philip A. Charles

ago 2010 · Cambridge University Press

Acerca de este libro electrónico

Capturing the excitement and accomplishments of X-ray astronomy, this second edition now includes a broader range of astronomical phenomena and dramatic new results from the most powerful X-ray telescopes. Covering all areas of astronomical research, ranging from the smallest to the largest objects, from neutron stars to clusters of galaxies, this textbook is ideal for undergraduate students. Each chapter starts with the basic aspects of the topic, explores the history of discoveries, and examines in detail modern observations and their significance. This new edition has been updated with results from the most recent space-based instruments, including ROSAT, BeppoSAX, ASCA, Chandra, and XMM. New chapters cover X-ray emission processes, the interstellar medium, the Solar System, and gamma-ray bursts. The text is supported by over 300 figures, with tables listing the properties of the sources, and more specialized technical points separated in boxes.

Acerca del autor

Frederick D. Seward has been leader of the High Altitude Physics Group at the Lawrence Livermore Laboratory, Director of the Einstein Guest Observer Program at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, Head of Chandra User Support and an Assistant Director of the Chandra Observatory before retiring in 2004.

Philip A. Charles is Director of the South African Astronomical Observatory, which operates SALT, the largest telescope in the southern hemisphere. He has recently been head of the astronomy group at the University of Southampton's School of Physics and Astronomy.