Ion, electrons, photons, and neutral species are coupled in a range of collisions phenomena in the Universe, the understanding of which hinges upon atomic and molecular physics. Recent JPL/Caltech work will be described in electron-highly charged ion (HCI) excitation, and measurement of HCI metastable lifetimes for coronal equilibrium; and HCI-neutral single and multiple charge exchange for understanding X-ray emissions in solar-wind collisions with cometary neutrals and planetary upper atmospheres.

In the course of our work ideas have emerged which have led to separate programs in miniature mass spectrometry for space exploration, and to explosives detection. Descriptions of these will be given, and the underlying physics discussed.

(Refreshments are prior to the talk, at 3:30 p.m., in the Gant Complex, Physics Library, Room P-103.)