New Horizons in Time Domain Astronomy (IAU S285)

A thorough examination of different manifestations of variability and transient objects across the astronomical sciences.

R. Elizabeth Griffin (Edited by), Robert J. Hanisch (Edited by), Robert L. Seaman (Edited by)

9781107019850, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 10 May 2012

484 pages, 75 b/w illus. 10 tables
25.3 x 17.9 x 2.2 cm, 0.99 kg

IAU Symposium 285 addresses studies of variability among the whole gamut of cosmic objects. While new fields involving transients, blazars, gamma-ray bursts, active galactic nuclei and quasars are still emerging, the puzzles posed by longer-term sources of variability still remain. This volume adopts an interdisciplinary theme, examining different manifestations of variability to gain new scientific insights that may be missed when one type of object or variability is studied in isolation. By integrating discussions from participants across the breadth of astronomical science, it addresses the core question: 'How can technology and collaboration be better harnessed to enhance the science requirements and outcomes?' With major new transient surveys coming online soon to lay the groundwork for LSST, the results, research tools and visions presented here will help both researchers and database managers collaborate in the exciting challenges of time-domain astronomy.

Introduction
Foreword
1. Can our data meet the challenges?
2. Explosive or irreversible changes
3. Things that tick
4. Irregular and aperiodic changes
5. Preparing for the future
Workshop reports
Poster papers
Author index.

Subject Areas: Physics [PH], Astronomical observation: observatories, equipment & methods [PGG], Astronomy, space & time [PG]