Scott DodelsonCambridge University Press, 6/8/2017EAN 9781107129764, ISBN10: 1107129761Hardcover, 234 pages, 25.3 x 17.8 x 1.6 cmLanguage: EnglishGravitational lensing is a consequence of general relativity, where the gravitational force due to a massive object bends the paths of light originating from distant objects lying behind it. Using very little general relativity and no higher level mathematics, this text presents the basics of gravitational lensing, focusing on the equations needed to understand the phenomena. It then applies them to a diverse set of topics, including multiply imaged objects, time delays, extrasolar planets, microlensing, cluster masses, galaxy shape measurements, cosmic shear, and lensing of the cosmic microwave background. This approach allows undergraduate students and others to get quickly up to speed on the basics and the important issues. The text will be especially relevant as large surveys such as LSST and Euclid begin to dominate the astronomical landscape. Designed for a one semester course, it is accessible to anyone with two years of undergraduate physics background.1. Overview2. Deflection of light3. Multiple images4. Magnification5. Microlensing6. Weak lensinggalaxy shapes7. Mass from shapes8. Cosmic shear9. Lensing of the cosmic microwave backgroundAppendix A. NumbersAppendix B. Lensing formulae.
