Abstract: Magnetic fields are found across the Universe, from planets through stars and galaxies to cosmological structures. They can do very different things: accelerate particles and protect planets from these, enable non-thermal radiation, regulate formation of stars and planets, enable efficient accretion and power relativistic outflows, stabilize or destabilize various astrophysical systems. They can even dominate energetically certain environments, and resist the gravity of black holes. This lecture shall cover a broad range of topics, intertwining observational evidence (Earth, planets, Sun, stars, pulsars and magnetars, galaxies, active galactic nuclei, relativistic jets, galaxy clusters) with basic theoretical considerations (magnetohydrodynamics, waves and shocks, instabilities, Fermi processes, synchrotron and curvature emission, reconnection, dynamo, battery).
Assessment: will be based on points that can be obtained for: (1) solving problems, (2) a presentation, (3) the final exam. Details will be announced at the first lecture.
Credits: 3 ECTS
Program of the studies: Monographic lecture at CAMK PAN (item 3.1 in the program of the studies)
Form: online (Zoom) + in-person (CAMK PAN Warsaw; may be restricted depending on the COVID situation)
Date & time: Tuesdays, 11:15 am (first lecture: 1 Mar 2022)
Nicolaus Copernicus Astronomical Center, PAS