Radio wavelength transients: Current and emerging prospects

Abstract

Known classes of radio wavelength transients range from the nearby stellar flares and radio pulsars to the distant Universe γ-ray burst afterglows. Hypothesized classes of radio transients include analogs of known objects, e.g., extrasolar planets emitting Jovian-like radio bursts and giant-pulse emitting pulsars in other galaxies, to the exotic, prompt emission from γ-ray bursts, evaporating black holes, and transmitters from other civilizations. A number of instruments and facilities are either under construction or in early observational stages and are slated to become available in the next few years. With a combination of wide fields of view and wavelength agility, the detection and study of radio transients will improve immensely. (© 2008 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)