Neutral-atom Astronomy: Plasma Diagnostics From The Aurora To The Interstellar Medium

Astronomy has been associated with the detection of electromagnetic waves or photons from within and beyond the solar system, ranging from Radio to Gamma-ray Astronomy. Particle Astrophysics, including Neutrino and Dark-Matter Astrophysics, started with the discovery of cosmic rays in 1911. The Space Age expanded particle observations to in-situ studies of lower energy electrons and ions with a variety of charge states in space plasmas traversed by spacecraft. This book is a primer for those who wish to learn more about the origins of ENAs, related detection techniques, and how ENA images and spectra can be used to study space plasmas beyond the reach of spacecraft. It tells a comprehensive story from the first encounters with ENAs in the Earth's magnetosphere to Neutral-Atom Astronomy of the edge of the heliosphere and the interstellar medium.

Format: Hardback
Length: 328 pages
Publication date: 23 June 2022
Publisher: World Scientific Publishing Co Pte Ltd

Astronomy has a rich history of exploring electromagnetic waves and photons originating from within and beyond our solar system. This captivating field encompasses a wide range of wavelengths, from radio waves to gamma-ray radiation. Particle Astrophysics, including Neutrino and Dark-Matter Astrophysics, has emerged as a significant branch of astronomy, with its roots dating back to the discovery of cosmic rays in 1911.

The Space Age marked a pivotal era in particle observations, expanding our understanding to include in-situ studies of lower-energy electrons and ions in space plasmas traversed by spacecraft. The discovery of energetic neutral atoms (ENAs) in space in 1950 opened up a new realm of possibilities for remote observation of space plasmas. This breakthrough allowed scientists to study these dynamic environments beyond the reach of traditional spacecraft.

This book serves as a comprehensive guide for those eager to delve deeper into the origins, detection techniques, and applications of ENA images and spectra in studying space plasmas. It traces the journey from the initial encounters with ENAs in the Earth's magnetosphere to the realm of Neutral-Atom Astronomy, encompassing the edge of the heliosphere and the interstellar medium. The authors aim to inform and inspire readers, fostering a deeper understanding of this fascinating field of study.

The book explores the evolution of ion mass spectrographs into ENA imagers, highlighting the technical challenges overcome and the valuable information extracted from ENA data. It discusses various diagnostic applications in the magnetosphere, interplanetary space, other solar-system objects, the heliospheric boundary, the local interstellar medium, and offers a glimpse into the future of Neutral-Atom Astronomy.

By delving into the rich history, cutting-edge techniques, and promising applications of ENA Astronomy, this book provides a valuable resource for scientists, researchers, and enthusiasts alike. It encourages readers to contribute to the ongoing exploration of the cosmos and further enrich this field of study.

Weight: 618g
Dimension: 157 x 237 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789813279193