Cosmic Structures

Abstract

In this first chapter, the cosmic players (objects) are introduced superficially, whose detailed properties will then entertain us to the end of the book. The play starts in front of our doors, with the Solar System, and continues to our host galaxy, the Milky Way, and further to groups and clusters of galaxies until the outer reaches of observation, the Early Universe. Emphasis will be placed on length scales, time scales, masses, velocities, densities, temperatures, pressures, magnetic fields, and radiations. The newcomer can find more facts and observational backup, e.g., in [Karttunen et al., 2000].