X-rays in the Solar System

One of the big surprises from recent X-ray satellites has been the discovery of X-ray emission from comets. The first detection was by ROSAT, but the Chandra and XMM-Newton satellites are now providing beautiful spectra on a dozen comets. Since these objects are very cold, the emission is unexpected. The most likely interpretation is that the interaction of the solar wind with the cometary atmosphere produces the emission. Last year, X-rays were also detected from Venus and Mars for the first time.

The purpose of this interdisciplinary workshop is to bring together X-ray observers, modelers and laboratory physicists to discuss recent X-ray spectra of different solar system objects and confront them with the latest models. The need for accurate laboratory data will be emphasized. The possible relation with the diffuse X-ray background and X-ray spectra from hot gas in other environments will be discussed.