Models of galaxy formation predict that gas accretion from the cosmic web is a primary driver of star formation over cosmic history. Except in very dense environments where galaxy mergers are also important, model galaxies feed from cold streams of gas from the web that penetrate their dark matter halos. Although these predictions are unambiguous

The LOFT mission concept is one of four candidates selected by ESA for the M3 launch opportunity as Medium Size missions of the Cosmic Vision programme. The launch window is currently planned for between 2022 and 2024. LOFT is designed to exploit the diagnostics of rapid X-ray flux and spectral variability that directly probe the motion of matter

The dissolution of fullerene C60 in oleum (fuming sulphuric acid 20 % free SO3) was followed simultaneously with ESR (Electron Spin Resonance) and NIR (Near Infrared Spectroscopy). It is shown that the intensity of the ESR signal associated to the formation of C60 radical cation (C60+•) follows the same kinetics as the NIR absoption band at about

During our recent observing run at La Silla (April 26-28, 1996), we had the chance to experiment successfully a previously unexplored capability of the NTT: high-dispersion spectroscopy using the full slit length of EMMI.

M31 has been monitored by a Chandra GTO program, which used both the HRC and ACIS from 1999 to 2001 and a GO program, which used ACIS-S during 2000-2001. We report here the lightcurves of X-ray sources in M31 during the past two years. X-ray sources in M31, like in our Galaxy, exhibit variability on long timescales (days to months). Some sources

Aims: We study the multi-band variability and correlations of the TeV blazar Mrk 421 on year timescales, which can bring additional insight on the processes responsible for its broadband emission. Methods: We observed Mrk 421 in the very high energy (VHE) γ-ray range with the Cherenkov telescope MAGIC-I from March 2007 to June 2009 for a total of