Extraterrestrial Seismology

Description

Seismology is a highly effective tool for investigating the internal structure of the Earth. Similar techniques have also successfully been used to study other planetary bodies (planetary seismology), the Sun (helioseismology), and other stars (asteroseismology). Despite obvious differences between stars and planetary bodies, these disciplines share many similarities and together form a coherent field of scientific research. This unique book takes a transdisciplinary approach to seismology and seismic imaging, reviewing the most recent developments in these extraterrestrial contexts. With contributions from leading scientists, this timely volume systematically outlines the techniques used in observation, data processing, and modelling for asteroseismology, helioseismology, and planetary seismology, drawing comparisons with seismic methods used in geophysics. Important recent discoveries in each discipline are presented. With an emphasis on transcending the traditional boundaries of astronomy, solar, planetary and Earth sciences, this novel book is an invaluable resource and reference for undergraduates, postgraduates and academics.

Vincent C. H. Tong is Senior Lecturer in Geophysics at Birkbeck, University of London. He is also one of the principal investigators in an international interdisciplinary research consortium involving solid earth science and oceanography. In addition to his research in geophysical imaging, he has published cross-disciplinary studies in solar and planetary seismology, and is a strong advocate for teaching and outreach enhanced by interdisciplinary scientific research. Rafael A. Garcia is Director of Research in Solar and Stellar Physics at the Service d'Astrophysique, French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission in Saclay, France. His research focuses on global helioseismology and more recently on asteroseismology of Sun-like stars and red giants. He has participated in the development of various helio- and asteroseismic space missions of CNES, NASA and ESA.

'... extensive, interesting, and useful... This is the most widely embracing discussion of the subject between two covers, and can be useful to anyone involved in extraterrestrial seismology who wishes to improve their expertise by extending the arena of their knowledge beyond their own subdiscipline.' Douglas Gough, The Observatory