Professor Thomas J. Ahrens and Shock Wave Physics in Russia

Since his earlier works on the equations of state and dynamic mechanical properties of rocks and other materials Prof. T.J. Ahrens furnished large influence on development of the shock wave physics in Russia. He always demonstrates a choice of excellent problems and a level of productivity in the field of shock compression science which is unparalleled. In recognition of his great contribution into science and international scientific collaboration Prof. Ahrens has been elected in Russian Academy of Sciences as its foreign member. In the presentation, emphasis will be done on the Comet Shoemaker-Levy project in which we had fruitful informal collaboration, on the problem of wide-range equations of state, and on stress relaxation at shock compression of solids.