Nonlinear Dynamics in Astronomy and Physics

This volume, the proceedings of the 16th Florida Workshop in Nonlinear Astronomy and Physics, emphasizes the cross-disciplinary nature of much current research in astronomy and physics in the area of dynamics. Developments in one field can advance more quickly when information is available regarding parallel developments in other fields. This occurs not only by the exchange of methods and techniques, but also from conceptual refinements resulting from different perspectives on similar problems. Contributors to this volume include theorists and experimentalists from the fields of nonlinear dynamics, mathematics, galactic dynamics and structure, dark matter, plasma physics, accelerator beams, and statistical mechanics. Dynamical problems on all astrophysical scales are discussed from those of the sun and the solar system to cosmology. This is a particularly appropriate time to look at this subject because observations have provided compelling evidence that many galaxies are genuinely three-dimensional; that is, they are neither spherical nor axisymmetric, they typically have a central density cusp, and the center of the galaxy often contains a super massive black hole. Furthermore, the Hubble Space Telescope has produced exciting data about the spatial and temporal structure of cosmological space-time and especially about the epoch of galaxy formation. The meeting and the volume are dedicated to the memory of Professor Henry E. Kandrup, whose work was centered on stochastic problems in stellar dynamics. NOTE: Annals volumes are available for sale as individual books or as a journal. For information on institutional journal subscriptions, please visit www.blackwellpublishing.com/nyas. ACADEMY MEMBERS: Please contact the New York Academy of Sciences directly to place your order (www.nyas.org). Members of the New York Academy of Science receive full-text access to the Annals online and discounts on print volumes. Please visit http://www.nyas.org/MemberCenter/Join.aspx for more information about becoming a member.