Protoplanetary Dust: Astrophysical and Cosmochemical Perspectives

Description

Planet formation studies uniquely benefit from three disciplines: astronomical observations of extrasolar planet-forming disks, analysis of material from the early Solar System, and laboratory astrophysics experiments. Pre-planetary solids, fine dust, and chondritic components are central elements linking these studies. This book is the first comprehensive overview of planet formation, in which astronomers, cosmochemists, and laboratory astrophysicists jointly discuss the latest insights from the Spitzer and Hubble space telescopes, new interferometers, space missions including Stardust and Deep Impact, and laboratory techniques. Following the evolution of solids from their genesis through protoplanetary disks to rocky planets, the book discusses in detail how the latest results from these disciplines fit into a coherent picture. This volume provides a clear introduction and valuable reference for students and researchers in astronomy, cosmochemistry, laboratory astrophysics, and planetary sciences.

Daniel Apai is an Assistant Astronomer at the Space Telescope Science Institute. His research focuses on the observational characterization of the origins and properties of extrasolar planets and planetary systems. Dante Lauretta is an Associate Professor of Planetary Science and Cosmochemistry at the University of Arizona's Lunar and Planetary Laboratory. His research interests include the chemistry and mineralogy of asteroids and comets as determined by in situ laboratory analysis and spacecraft observations.

'Protoplanetary Dust is a terrific edition (No. 12) to the Cambridge Planetary Science Series. ... This book should be required reading for all cosmochemists (and astronomers), and it would serve as a excellent text for an interesting graduate course on the origin of solar systems.' Geochemical News '... an excellent read, very much at the research edge in the field, and very up to date in the sources used. I would recommend it highly to graduate students, but also for the bookshelves of professionals in the field.' The Observatory '... can be recommended not only to planetary scientists working in the field of planet formation but also to students who seek an introduction to this enormously challenging topic. The organization of the contents makes it possible to concentrate on certain aspects, as few people will be experts in all topics. Having the book on your shelf gives you the confidence that the comprehensive overview of the history of solids in our solar system from a simple grain to the beautiful planet we live on is just a move away.' Ruth Ziethe, European Space Research and Technology Centre, European Space Agency