The Magnetic Field of the Milky Way Galaxy

Abstract

Cosmic magnetic fields are an integral component of the interstellar medium (ISM), having influence on scales ranging from star formation to galactic dynamics. While observations of external galaxies offer a `birds-eye-view' of magnetic fields within galaxies, it is equally important to explore the magnetic field of our own Milky Way Galaxy, which offers a more detailed, albeit more complicated view. Over the past decade there has been a significant increase in interest in the Galactic magnetic field, fueled largely by innovations developed through the Canadian Galactic Plane Survey. In this paper, I review the current state of understanding of the Galactic magnetic field, and discuss briefly new and future observations that will provide exciting new insights about the field.