Solid matter in space is crucial in accounting for many processes. In these last years a great improvement of the general knowledge of the problem has been possible due to the increase, in number and quality, of observations and of the laboratory efforts to simulate "cosmic" dust. Theoreticians have also given their contribution in solving some questions and in posing others. Continuing an effort started in 1987, the Astrophysical Groups operating in Naples th th have considered it useful to organize a Workshop in Capri from September 8 to 13 1989 in order to assess the state of the art in such an interesting field as that of "Dusty Objects in the Universe". The subject is, obviously, too wide to be discussed in detail. However, the presence of many experts in different areas provided an updated general picture. Laboratory work has been reviewed, as well as recent observations and theoretical interpretations which concern processes occurring in our Galaxy and in external galaxies. The Workshop gave to participants the unique opportunity of exchanging ideas and of discussing on different themes. In addition, the meeting has been enriched by the presentation of the major technological projects related to ongoing airborne and space mlSSlons. the aim of giving the state of the art about specific Invited papers were prepared with subjects; contributed papers and some selected poster papers presented, on the contrary, the various fields.

- First book to present a comprehensive study of dust in the universe

Volume 1 provides a broad overview of the chemistry of the solar system. It includes chapters on the origin of the elements and solar system abundances, the solar nebula and planet formation, meteorite classification, the major types of meteorites, important processes in early solar system history, geochemistry of the terrestrial planets, the giant planets and their satellite, comets, and the formation and early differentiation of the Earth. This volume is intended to be the first reference work one would consult to learn about the chemistry of the solar system. Reprinted individual volume from the acclaimed Treatise on Geochemistry (10 Volume Set, ISBN 0-08-043751-6, published in 2003)

The remarkable story of how our solar system came to be The birth and evolution of our solar system is a tantalizing mystery that may one day provide answers to the question of human origins. From Dust to Life tells the remarkable story of how the celestial objects that make up the solar system arose from common beginnings billions of years ago, and how scientists and philosophers have sought to unravel this mystery down through the centuries, piecing together the clues that enabled them to deduce the solar system's layout, its age, and the most likely way it formed. Drawing on the history of astronomy and the latest findings in astrophysics and the planetary sciences, John Chambers and Jacqueline Mitton offer the most up-to-date and authoritative treatment of the subject available. They examine how the evolving universe set the stage for the appearance of our Sun, and how the nebulous cloud of gas and dust that accompanied the young Sun eventually became the planets, comets, moons, and asteroids that exist today. They explore how each of the planets acquired its unique characteristics, why some are rocky and others gaseous, and why one planet in particular—our Earth—provided an almost perfect haven for the emergence of life. From Dust to Life is a must-read for anyone who desires to know more about how the solar system came to be. This enticing book takes readers to the very frontiers of modern research, engaging with the latest controversies and debates. It reveals how ongoing discoveries of far-distant extrasolar planets and planetary systems are transforming our understanding of our own solar system's astonishing history and its possible fate.

A handy and comprehensive reference to the 300 most interesting celestial objects. This book provides a tour through the galaxy, from its solar core to its outer limits, with all the highlights and the very latest data about the universe. Convenient data sidebars with each entry provide facts and figures on every object- including mass, magnitude, density, radius, rotation period, and surface and core temperatures. An annotated cross-section of the object enhances this information, and a full-page photograph brings the object to life. Additional spreads bring together and explain related objects or phenomena. For example, the corresponding pages for the sun include solar power, sunspots and solar flares. Others examples include: *Mercury: Mercury's surface *The asteroid belt: Eros 433 *Jupiter's moons: 10, Europa, Callista *Outer belts and comets: Halley's comet; Deep Impact *Space telescopes: International Space Station. 300 Astronomical Objects is a handy reference for the amateur astronomer. AUTHOR: Jamie Wilkins has a degree in astrophysics from Cambridge University. Robert Dunn has a degree in natural sciences, specializing in physics, from Cambridge University, where he is a researcher at the Institute of Astronomy. 300 + colour illustrations