Infrared Solar Physics

de D. M. Rabin

Infrared Solar Physics contains the proceedings of the 154th Symposium of the International Astronomical Union held in Tucson, Arizona, March 2--5, 1992. Aimed at active workers and graduate students in solar physics, this volume provides the first comprehensive view of a rapidly expanding discipline that gives us a new perspective on the sun. Measurements across the wide infrared spectral range -- here, from 1 mum to 1 mm -- can probe the solar atmosphere from below the visible surface through the outer reaches of the corona. Taking full advantage of revolutionary advances in detector technology, infrared observations from the ground, aircraft and space have led to a better understanding of solar magnetic fields, atmospheric structure and activity, and elemental abundances. The infrared has also provided new interpretive challenges, such as the appearance of the 12-mum emission lines of magnesium. These and other developments are discussed here by the leading contributors to the field, who also give their perspectives on the future of this rich field of study.