Polarimetry of Stars and Planetary Systems

Polarimetry of Stars and Planetary Systems

Author: Ludmilla Kolokolova

Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Published: 2015-05-14

Total Pages: 507

ISBN-13: 1107043905

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A comprehensive review of state-of-the-art techniques, models and research methods in modern astronomical polarimetry.


Polarimetry of Stars and Planetary Systems

Polarimetry of Stars and Planetary Systems

Author: Ludmilla Kolokolova

Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Published: 2015-05-14

Total Pages: 507

ISBN-13: 1316298949

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Summarising the striking advances of the last two decades, this reliable introduction to modern astronomical polarimetry provides a comprehensive review of state-of-the-art techniques, models and research methods. Focusing on optical and near-infrared wavelengths, each detailed, up-to-date chapter addresses a different facet of recent innovations, including new instrumentation, techniques and theories; new methods based on laboratory studies, enabling the modelling of polarimetric characteristics for a wide variety of astronomical objects; emerging fields of polarimetric exploration, including proto-planetary and debris discs, icy satellites, transneptunian objects, exoplanets, and the search for extraterrestrial life; and unique results produced by space telescopes, and polarimeters aboard exploratory spacecraft. With contributions from an international team of accomplished researchers, this is an ideal resource for astronomers and researchers working in astrophysics, earth sciences, and remote sensing keen to learn more about this valuable diagnostic tool. The book is dedicated to the memory of renowned polarimetrist Tom Gehrels.


Asteroids IV

Asteroids IV

Author: Patrick Michel

Publisher: University of Arizona Press

Published: 2015-12-31

Total Pages: 946

ISBN-13: 0816532133

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"More than forty chapters detail our current astronomical, compositional, geological, and geophysical knowledge of asteroids, as well as their unique physical processes and interrelationships with comets and meteorites"--Provided by publisher.


Astronomical Polarimetry

Astronomical Polarimetry

Author: Jaap Tinbergen

Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Published: 2005-08-22

Total Pages: 176

ISBN-13: 9780521018586

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Radiation from astronomical objects generally shows some degree of polarization. Although this polarized radiation is usually only a small fraction of the total radiation, it often carries a wealth of information on the physical state and geometry of the emitting object and intervening material. Measurement of this polarized radiation is central to much modern astrophysical research. This handy volume provides a clear, comprehensive and concise introduction to astronomical polarimetry at all wavelengths. Starting from first principles and a simple physical picture of polarized radiation, the reader is introduced to all the key topics, including Stokes parameters, applications of polarimetry in astronomy, polarization algebra, polarization errors and calibration methods, and a selection of instruments (from radio to X-ray). The book is rounded off with a number of useful case studies, a collection of exercises, an extensive list of further reading and an informative index. This review of all aspects of astronomical polarization provides both an essential introduction for graduate students, and a valuable reference for practising astronomers.


Springer Series in Light Scattering

Springer Series in Light Scattering

Author: Alexander Kokhanovsky

Publisher: Springer Nature

Published: 2022-09-13

Total Pages: 201

ISBN-13: 3031102983

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This book is aimed at description of recent progress in studies of multiple and single light scattering in turbid media. Light scattering and radiative transfer research community will greatly benefit from the publication of this book.


Mapping of the Moon

Mapping of the Moon

Author: Zdenek Kopal

Publisher: Springer Science & Business Media

Published: 2013-04-17

Total Pages: 247

ISBN-13: 9401021333

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The aim of the present book has been to provide an outline - the first of its kin- of the history of the human efforts to map the topography of the surface of our satellite, from the days of pre-telescopic astronomy up to the present. These efforts commenced modestly at the time when the unaided eye was still the only tool at the disposal of men interested in the face of our satellite; and were con tinued since for more than three centuries by a small band of devoted friends of the Moon in several countries. Many of these were amateur astronomers, and almost all were amateur cartographers; though some highly skilled in their art. The reader interested in the history oflunar mapping between 1600 and 1960 will find its outline in the first chapter of this book; and can follow the way in which the leadership in the mapping of the Moon, the cradle of which stood in Italy, passed successively to France, Germany, and eventually to the United States. All efforts described in this chapter were wholly superseded by subsequent devel opments since 1960, largely motivated by logistic needs of a grand effort which cul minated with repeated manned landings on the Moon between 1969-1972- a feat which will remain for ever one of the glories of our century.


Exoplanet Science Strategy

Exoplanet Science Strategy

Author: National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine

Publisher: National Academies Press

Published: 2019-01-17

Total Pages: 187

ISBN-13: 030947941X

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The past decade has delivered remarkable discoveries in the study of exoplanets. Hand-in-hand with these advances, a theoretical understanding of the myriad of processes that dictate the formation and evolution of planets has matured, spurred on by the avalanche of unexpected discoveries. Appreciation of the factors that make a planet hospitable to life has grown in sophistication, as has understanding of the context for biosignatures, the remotely detectable aspects of a planet's atmosphere or surface that reveal the presence of life. Exoplanet Science Strategy highlights strategic priorities for large, coordinated efforts that will support the scientific goals of the broad exoplanet science community. This report outlines a strategic plan that will answer lingering questions through a combination of large, ambitious community-supported efforts and support for diverse, creative, community-driven investigator research.


New Worlds, New Horizons in Astronomy and Astrophysics

New Worlds, New Horizons in Astronomy and Astrophysics

Author: National Research Council

Publisher: National Academies Press

Published: 2011-02-04

Total Pages: 324

ISBN-13: 0309157994

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Driven by discoveries, and enabled by leaps in technology and imagination, our understanding of the universe has changed dramatically during the course of the last few decades. The fields of astronomy and astrophysics are making new connections to physics, chemistry, biology, and computer science. Based on a broad and comprehensive survey of scientific opportunities, infrastructure, and organization in a national and international context, New Worlds, New Horizons in Astronomy and Astrophysics outlines a plan for ground- and space- based astronomy and astrophysics for the decade of the 2010's. Realizing these scientific opportunities is contingent upon maintaining and strengthening the foundations of the research enterprise including technological development, theory, computation and data handling, laboratory experiments, and human resources. New Worlds, New Horizons in Astronomy and Astrophysics proposes enhancing innovative but moderate-cost programs in space and on the ground that will enable the community to respond rapidly and flexibly to new scientific discoveries. The book recommends beginning construction on survey telescopes in space and on the ground to investigate the nature of dark energy, as well as the next generation of large ground-based giant optical telescopes and a new class of space-based gravitational observatory to observe the merging of distant black holes and precisely test theories of gravity. New Worlds, New Horizons in Astronomy and Astrophysics recommends a balanced and executable program that will support research surrounding the most profound questions about the cosmos. The discoveries ahead will facilitate the search for habitable planets, shed light on dark energy and dark matter, and aid our understanding of the history of the universe and how the earliest stars and galaxies formed. The book is a useful resource for agencies supporting the field of astronomy and astrophysics, the Congressional committees with jurisdiction over those agencies, the scientific community, and the public.