Principles of Gravitational Lensing

This textbook looks at gravitational lensing, which has become an invaluable tool in modern astrophysics, from finding planets orbiting distant stars to understanding how dark matter and dark energy conspired to form the galaxies and cosmic structures we see today. Principles of Gravitational Lensing begins with EinsteinΓÇÖs prediction that mass bends light, and shows how this simple idea has gone from theoretical curiosity to observational science in under a century. It describes how the three subfields known as strong lensing, weak lensing, and microlensing have grown independently but become increasingly intertwined. Drawing on their research experience, Congdon and Keeton present the mathematical foundation of gravitational lensing to beginning graduate and advanced undergraduate students with a background in physics. The derivations and explanations are supplemented by exercises at the end of each chapter. The treatment is self-contained and comprehensive. Principl
es of Gravitational Lensing is ideal for students and seasoned researchers looking to penetrate this thriving subject and even contribute research of their own.
Certain properties of stars and planets could be seen with the naked eye, but the full beauty and complexity of the cosmos was revealed only with the advent of the telescope. Today, astronomers recognize that gravity can bend light rays, creating enormous ΓÇ£cosmic telescopesΓÇ¥ that help us probe aspects of the universe that are otherwise invisible.
While various monographs and lecture compilations on the subject have appeared, a comprehensive didactic account that assumes only a background in undergraduate physics has so far been lacking. This book begins with the basic physics of light bending and builds up to current research topics in a clear and systematic way. Relevant background material from physics and mathematics is included, making the book self-contained. Exercises at the end of each chapter are carefully designed to help students master the theoretical concepts and methods that drive research in gravitational lensing. An extensive bibliography guides those wishing to delve more deeply into particular areas of interest.