n the Special Topics analysis of key neutrino research over the last decade, Astroparticle Physics ranks among the top 25 most-cited journals in this subject field. In the following interview, Astroparticle Physics receiving editor Barry C. Barish of the California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, shares some thoughts on the journal’s place in the literature and on the challenges that it continues to face. Dr. Barish is currently Linde Professor of Physics at Caltech.

  Why do you think Astroparticle Physics is so highly cited?

The journal specializes in the area of science between particle physics and astrophysics. Much of the work on neutrinos—mass, oscillations, supernovae neutrinos, dark matter—overlaps both fields. Astroparticle Physics has an audience of people who work in this overlap area.

  What historical factors have contributed to the success of your journal?

It found a needed niche, has been responsive to publishing promptly and flexibly, and has gone electronic, as needed.

  Are there significant controversies affecting Astroparticle Physics or the field at this time?

Understanding the science of neutrino oscillations is a big issue, because all the experimental results together do not present a satisfying interpretation. Other questions like dark matter and dark energy are of great importance.

  What are the greatest challenges for publishing in this field?

The main problem is that there is no easy unity to the subareas of astroparticle physics, so the community is made up of discrete subgroups. The result is that different subfields publish in different journals. The challenge is in reaching beyond the audience in the various subfields.

Barry C. Barish
Linde Professor Of Physics
Caltech 18-34
Pasadena, Ca 91125