A Dirty Window

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This book introduces the physics of interstellar gas in the Galaxy, focusing on the diffuse interstellar medium, which creates a complex environment for exploring the neutral gas content of galaxies like the Milky Way. It begins with an overview of the interstellar medium's phases and the role of gas in spiral galaxies, then transitions to the shift from atomic to molecular gas. The authors delve into basic radiative transfer and molecular spectroscopy, highlighting molecules essential for studying low-density molecular gas. They explore observational techniques for examining gas and dust across the electromagnetic spectrum, emphasizing findings from the Herschel and Planck missions. A concise discussion on dust in the diffuse interstellar medium precedes an examination of molecular clouds, particularly high-latitude ones. The book addresses methods for calibrating CO observations with molecular hydrogen content and the dark molecular gas controversy. High-latitude molecular clouds are analyzed in detail, showcasing the application of the discussed techniques. Given the transient nature of diffuse and translucent molecular clouds, the authors investigate the role of turbulence in their origin and dynamics. This work is aimed at graduate students and postdocs entering the field of interstellar medium studies.