Title: Essential radio astronomy / James J. Condon and Scott M. Ransom.
Authors: Condon, J. J.; Ransom, Scott M.
Date: 2016
Publisher: Princeton University Press,
Physical description: x, 363 pages, 8 unnumbered pages of plates : illustrations (some color) ; 27 cm
Language: English
LC classification: Q
Abstract: "Essential Radio Astronomy is the only textbook on the subject specifically designed for a one-semester introductory course for advanced undergraduates or graduate students in astronomy and astrophysics. It starts from first principles in order to fill gaps in students' backgrounds, make teaching easier for professors who are not expert radio astronomers, and provide a useful reference to the essential equations used by practitioners. This unique textbook reflects the fact that students of multiwavelength astronomy typically can afford to spend only one semester studying the observational techniques particular to each wavelength band. Essential Radio Astronomy presents only the most crucial concepts—succinctly and accessibly. It covers the general principles behind radio telescopes, receivers, and digital backends without getting bogged down in engineering details. Emphasizing the physical processes in radio sources, the book's approach is shaped by the view that radio astrophysics owes more to thermodynamics than electromagnetism. Proven in the classroom and generously illustrated throughout, Essential Radio Astronomy is an invaluable resource for students and researchers alike."--Publisher's description.
Contents: Introduction -- Radiation Fundamentals -- Radio Telescopes and Radiometers -- Free-Free Radiation -- Synchrotron Radiation -- Pulsars -- Spectral Lines -- Fourier Transforms -- Mathematical Derivations -- Special Relativity -- Wave Propagation in a Plasma -- Essential Equations -- Constants, Units, and Dimensions -- Symbols and Abbreviations -- References and Links.
Subject headings (LCSH): Radio astronomy