Solar and Astrophysical Dynamos and Magnetic Activity (IAU S294) Proceedings of the International Astronomical Union Symposia and Colloquia Series

Global magnetic fields in planets, in the Sun and other stars, in spiral galaxies and galaxy clusters are believed to be generated and maintained by a hydromagnetic dynamo, a process that converts turbulent kinetic energy into magnetic energy. These dynamo processes operate on drastically different scales, but are associated with common physical mechanisms, involving a complex interaction of rotation, turbulence and instabilities. The goal of IAU Symposium 294 was to discuss the most important results of recent studies of the cosmic dynamo processes, from planets to stars, galaxies, and clusters of galaxies. This volume covers advances in dynamo theories and numerical simulations, links between dynamos and turbulence, the origin of magnetic fields, and current and future observational projects. The proceedings of IAU S294 are an important asset for advanced students and researchers, as a summary of hot topics related to the solar and astrophysical dynamos and magnetic activity.

Preface; 1. Solar dynamo and activity cycles: observations, theories and simulations; 2. Local dynamos: ubiquitous small-scale magnetic fields and 'hidden magnetism'; 3. Stellar and planetary dynamos; 4. Interstellar and galactic dynamos; 5. Magnetic self-organization of solar/stellar plasma; 6. Critical physical ingredients for dynamos: turbulence and instabilities; 7. Advances in dynamo theories, simulations and experiments; 8. Current and new observing programs from the ground and space; 9. Magnetic fields and coronal activity; Author index; Object index.