Heliophysics : plasma physics of the local cosmos /

This outstanding work on contemporary heliophysics (space physics) comprehensively explores the one astrophysical system that is subject to direct in situ and remote sensing observation, the solar system. It initiates a three-part series; succeeding volumes will focus on space storms/radiation, and solar activity and space/Earth climates. The first two chapters launch this fascinating "voyage through the local cosmos." Subsequent chapters give more in-depth summaries about magnetohydrodynamics, magnetic fields in space plasmas, reconnection, turbulence, the solar atmosphere, stellar winds, planetary magnetospheres, solar-wind-magnetosphere coupling, and comparative planetary magnetospheres and environments. There are many helpful linkages between chapters, and all chapters illustrate the editors' transdisciplinary goal. For example, one chapter on the ionosphere (of the Earth) and chromosphere (of the sun) provides an insightful interdisciplinary analysis and intercomparison of these two partially ionized plasma regimes. Intermixed with the science are many useful examples to provide context for the physics along with discussions on model limitations, contemporary challenges, and history. This reviewer greatly enjoyed the weaving of Kristian Birkeland's historic research some 100 years ago into the chapter on stellar winds. This work dramatically illustrates the complex interplay of electromagnetism, plasmas, and gravity within a wide array of space plasma environments in our local cosmos. Summing Up: Essential. Upper-division undergraduates through professionals; general readers. T. Eastman formerly, University of Maryland