The Diffuse Interstellar Bands: 202 (Astrophysics and Space Science Library, 202) - Hardcover

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0792336291 ISBN 13: 9780792336297

Publisher: Springer, 1995

Synopsis

The mystery of the diffuse interstellar bands has been variously a curiosity, a co­ nundrum, and a nuisance for astronomers in the seven decades since the features were first noticed, but recently they have become a forefront issue in astrophysics. Ever since Paul Merrill, in a series of papers starting in 1934, pointed out the interstellar and unidentified nature of the bands, a Who's Who of twentieth century astronomers have tried their hands at solving the problem of identifying the carriers. Henry Norris Russell, Pol Swings, Otto Struve, Paul Ledoux, W. W. Morgan, Walter Adams, Jesse Greenstein, Lawrence Aller, and Gerhard Herzberg all briefly entered the stage, only to move on quickly to other problems where the chances for progress appeared more realistic. In more recent times a number of equally prominent scientists have pursued the bands, but generally only as a sideline to their real astronomical research. But in the past decade, and particularly in the past three years, the view of the search for the diffuse band absorbers as an interesting but perhaps quixotic quest has changed. Today there are several astronomers, as well as laboratory chemists, who are devoting substantial research time and resources to the problem and, as perhaps the most reliable indicator of the newly elevated status of research in this field, some research grants have now been awarded for the study of the bands.

About this title

Synopsis

While the origin of the diffuse interstellar bands in interstellar rather than stellar material was established soon after their discovery early in this century, their precise identification has eluded generations of astronomers. However, advances in optical techniques, laboratory studies of astrophysically relevant materials, and our general understanding of the interstellar medium may be changing that. Current indications are that the carrier is molecular in origin. The 40 invited reviews in "The Diffuse Interstellar Bands" bring the reader to the forefront of research, covering observation, theory and laboratory experiments. The audience include: an interdisciplinary work posing a challenge to astronomers, physicists and chemists interested in the visible spectra of large molecules. It is also recommended for graduate students entering the field.

Edition details

• Publisher: Springer
• Publication date: 1995
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0792336291
• ISBN 13: 9780792336297
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 425
• Editor: Tielens A.G.G.M., Snow T.P.