The Physical Processes and Observing Techniques of Radio Astronomy: An Introduction (Undergraduate Lecture Notes in Physics)

Geared toward undergraduates majoring in physics or astronomy, this textbook can accompany an undergraduate course on radio astronomy. Beginning with a basic motivation behind why conducting observations at radio frequencies is important, the text follows up with a review of essential physics concepts (corresponding to sophomore level physics – it is assumed that the student has already completed two semesters of introductory calculus-based physics). Next, the author describes single dish telescopes with important quantities (such as system temperature, etc.) and provides a brief introduction to interferometers. The most commonly encountered emission mechanisms seen in radio astronomy are then introduced, along with examples of astronomical sources divided (broadly) into the types of sources seen in Galactic and extragalactic observations. The author includes an appendix that provides useful supplementary material, and each chapter provides examples as well as exercises suitable for homework assignments.