Product Description

Since their discovery in 1967, pulsars have assumed a central role in astronomy and astrophysics, offering an opportunity to explore theoretical physics under extreme conditions. Pulsar Astronomy provides an ideal introductory account for those entering the field, and an invaluable reference for established researchers. Now thoroughly revised for its third edition, it covers research over wavelengths ranging from radio through optical and x-ray to gamma-rays. Topics range from the physics of neutron star interiors to the astrophysics of binary stars and the recent tests of general relativity. It is supported by extensive references and a complete catalogue of all known pulsars.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #2114668 in Books
• Published on: 2006-03-20
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Hardcover
• 330 pages

Review
'... covers a broad range of topics in a concise way, and it is particularly strong in its discussions of pulsar emission phenomenology, pulsars as probes of the interstellar medium and timing irregularities in young pulsars. With its breadth and clear presentation, the new edition will continue to be a valuable introduction for graduate students and others ...' Physics Today

'For anyone starting research, or preparing a graduate lecture course, this comprehensive, authoritative and readable introduction to pulsars, with some interesting historical asides, is strongly recommended.' The Observatory

About the Author
A pioneer of radio-astronomy, Professor Graham-Smith has been involved in pulsar research since 1967.

Andrew Lyne is head of the pulsar research group at Jodrell Bank.

Customer Reviews

A must have for people interested in pulsars
This book contains everything you need to know about pulsars. Although it includes some advanced physical and mathematical concepts, people not familiar with them can still read and enjoy it. It is an excellent reference for basic information about the discovery, observations and nature of pulsars.

what is currently known about pulsars
Pulsars are one of the most fascinating types of astronomical objects known. This new third edition gives a comprehensive and up to date description of what is known about them.

Much of the book is the same as earlier editions. Like the now familiar story of how the first pulsar was discovered in the 60s by Jocelyn Bell. And how a Nobel was later awarded to her advisor. (Considered by some to be a massive oversight.)

The book explains how pulsars let us probe cosmological distances and times. (The two are related.) It gives the latest models for pulsar formation. More recent results include the solving of the gamma ray bursters conundrum. A deep puzzle until recently, when satellite observations proved vital in explaining bursters.

interested in astronomy or neutron stars?
an excellent book for anyone deeply into astronomy, stellar evolution, or galactic dynamics .. the only part i question is the speculation on internal structure. the book should also appeal to physicists interested in materials or states of matter. ah yes! there is much current research in 'gravity waves' (search on LIGO). good luck! :)