21st century astrophysics

Abstract

n the year 1905, Albert Einstein published four landmark papers, concerning (i) photo-electric effect for which he was awarded Nobel prize, (ii) Brownian motion, (iii) special theory of relativity that revolutionized physics, and (iv) the most famous equation of all time, E = mc^2. These papers, which appeared in Ann. der Physik, provided the basis for fundamental developments of 20th century physics and of astrophysics in particular. They have also found practical applications in Brownian ratchets, photocells, relativistic microchips, petawatt lasers, Bose-Einstein condensates etc, inspiring 21st century technology. The year 2005 has been declared the `World Physics Year' by UNESCO, the United Nations, and many national scientific and government organizations. It marks the centenary of these seminal papers. In this opportune moment, a book entitled, `21st Century Astrophysics' has been released. This book may serve as an interface between the physicists and astrophysicists. A set of articles encompassing the fields of (i) relativistic astrophysics, (ii) stellar and galactic astronomy, (iii) Sun and solar systems, and (iv) observational techniques are available in this book.