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) |