In order to outline possible future directions in galaxy research, this book wants to be a short stopover, a moment of self-reflection of the past century of achievements in this area. Since the pioneering years of galaxy research in the early 20th century, the research on galaxies has seen a relentless advance directly connected to the parallel exponential growth of new technologies. Through a series of interviews with distinguished astronomers the editors provide a snapshot of the achievements obtained in understanding galaxies. While many initial questions about their nature have been addressed, many are still open and require new efforts to achieve a solution. The discussions may reveal paradigms worthwhile revisiting. With the help of some of those scientists who have contributed to it, the editors sketch the history of this scientific journey and ask them for inspirations for future directions of galaxy research.

For the last 40 years astronomers have observed sources of intense X-ray radiation from beyond our Solar System. These have been associated with remarkable objects, such as neutron stars and black holes. Current satellite observatories have enabled us to extend the studies of these objects from the Milky Way and Magellanic Clouds to individual X-ray sources in other galaxies. At the same time, imaging facilities at gamma-rays and TeV energies have improved enormously, leading to many further discoveries within our own galaxy. This Symposium presents an overview of these new developments, covering detailed studies of individual sources within the Milky Way, global descriptions of X-ray source populations in other galaxies, and less resolved relatives at high redshift. Galaxy nuclei and diffuse emission components are included, as are new discoveries at gamma-rays and TeV energies. IAU S230 is a valuable resource for astronomers and graduates working in high-energy astrophysics.

X-ray astronomy is the prime available window on astrophysical compact objects: black holes, neutron stars and white dwarfs. In this book, prominent experts provide a comprehensive overview of the observations and astrophysics of these objects. This is a valuable reference for graduate students and active researchers.

Capturing the excitement and accomplishments of X-ray astronomy, this second edition now includes a broader range of astronomical phenomena and dramatic new results from the most powerful X-ray telescopes. Covering all areas of astronomical research, ranging from the smallest to the largest objects, from neutron stars to clusters of galaxies, this textbook is ideal for undergraduate students. Each chapter starts with the basic aspects of the topic, explores the history of discoveries, and examines in detail modern observations and their significance. This new edition has been updated with results from the most recent space-based instruments, including ROSAT, BeppoSAX, ASCA, Chandra, and XMM. New chapters cover X-ray emission processes, the interstellar medium, the Solar System, and gamma-ray bursts. The text is supported by over 300 figures, with tables listing the properties of the sources, and more specialized technical points separated in boxes.