Moreover, the Sun and its probable fate is discussed in detail. Complex topics such as relativity, neutron stars, black holes, gravitational waves, cosmic rays and dark matter are explained in a clear and accessible manner. In addition, the book addresses the question of how life could arise and what role neutrinos might play in the synthesis of life. Several of these topics are embedded in a historical context, with some discussions reaching back to the 18th century. The book highlights the most significant achievements by individual scientists involved.
The book is the result of the annual “Münster Astroseminar”, held at the University of Münster, and is aimed at a curious audience with no special prior knowledge. Readers interested in the origin and evolution of the cosmos will find accessible insights into current research of physics.
Dieter Frekers is a professor and lecturer of experimental particle and nuclear physics at the University of Münster. He is Fellow of the American Physical Society.
Peter Biermann is a professor of astrophysics at the University of Bonn and the University of Alabama. He leads a Research Group at the Max-Planck-Institute for Radioastronomy.