Observational Molecular Astronomy: Exploring the Universe Using Molecular Line Emissions

David A. Williams

ISBN 10: 1107018161 / ISBN 13: 9781107018167

Published by Cambridge University Press, 2013

About this Item

This is the first book for astronomers who wish to use molecular emissions as a tool to explore the Universe. Series: Cambridge Observing Handbooks for Research Astronomers. Num Pages: 184 pages, 41 b/w illus. 24 tables. BIC Classification: PGG. Category: (P) Professional & Vocational; (U) Tertiary Education (US: College). Dimension: 232 x 159 x 15. Weight in Grams: 480. . 2013. 1st Edition. Hardcover. . . . .

Seller Inventory # V9781107018167

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Observational Molecular Astronomy: Exploring the Universe Using Molecular Line Emissions
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication Date: 2013
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1107018161
• ISBN 13: 9781107018167
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition: 1st Edition
• Condition: New

About this title

Synopsis

Molecular line emissions offer researchers exciting opportunities to learn about the evolutionary state of the Milky Way and distant galaxies. This text provides a detailed introduction to molecular astrophysics and an array of useful techniques for observing astronomical phenomena at millimetre and submillimetre wavelengths. After discussing the theoretical underpinnings of molecular observation, the authors catalogue suitable molecular tracers for many types of astronomical regions in local and distant parts of the Universe, including cold gas reservoirs primed for the formation of new stars, regions of active star formation, giant photon-dominated regions and near active galactic nuclei. Further chapters demonstrate how to obtain useful astronomical information from raw telescope data while providing recommendations for appropriate observing strategies. Replete with maps, charts and references for further reading, this handbook will suit research astronomers and graduate students interested in broadening their skill to take advantage of the new facilities now coming online.

About the Authors

David A. Williams is the Emeritus Perren Professor of Astronomy at University College London. A former president of the Royal Astronomical Society (2000–2) and recipient of the RAS's Gold Medal (2009), he has led research groups in Manchester and London, and has co-authored a number of texts on astrophysics and astrochemistry. His research interests centre on astrochemistry and using molecular line emissions to describe and understand the evolution of astronomical regions.

Serena Viti is a Professor of Astrophysics at University College London. She began her career working on the spectroscopy of very cool stars but soon became interested in star formation and astrochemistry. She is the secretary of the European Astronomical Society and she routinely serves on national and international scientific panels and committees.