Observational Molecular Astronomy

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.

Author: David A. Williams,Serena Viti
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Published: 11/25/2013
Pages: 184
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 1.05lbs
Size: 9.10h x 6.10w x 0.60d
ISBN: 9781107018167

About the Author
Viti, Serena: - 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.Williams, David A.: - 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.