The book examines a wide range of issues from various fields of physics, physical chemistry, astrophysics, with which gas and hydrodynamics deal. The basics of gas dynamics and the theory of shock waves, the theory of radiation transfer. Thermodynamic and optical properties of matter at high temperatures and pressures are considered, kinetics of dissociation, Ionization and other non-equilibrium processes , Phenomena, associated with radiation of light and radiant heat exchange in shock waves and explosions , Problems of propagation of shock waves in solids and t. d. The authors of the monograph own a large number of original works in the field of science under consideration, which are reflected in the book. The book will serve as a valuable practical guide for a wide range of physicists, mechanics and engineers involved in applied physics and new technology. It will be useful to students and graduate students of relevant specialties, as well as to all physicists and mechanics who want to get acquainted with the basics of shock wave science.