Solid interstellar matter

"This book discusses recent results from the European Infrared Satellite Observatory ISO, in close connection with dedicated laboratory experiments which aim at simulating some aspects of interstellar dust in various astrophysical environments. This multidisciplinary approach allows a precise interpretation of the astronomical spectra obtained by ISO in terms of the physico-chemical properties of interstellar dust. Ideas about the nature and evolution of this dust are confronted with the new spectroscopic results from this satellite. The connection between solid interstellar matter and the analysis of collected interplanetary dust particles is reviewed and discussed in the light of the new results brought about by ISO."--Jacket.