The Magnetoionic Universe: Timing, Bursts, and SETI

Propagation effects have been central to pulsar research and indeed were an integral part of the pulsar discovery and its prologue. I will summarize the early deduction process for establishing pulsar distances and refinements to the distance scale and modeling of the Galaxy in electron density and magnetic field. This will lead to the analogous current situation of understanding distances and media for extragalactic radio bursts. The role of magnetoionic media in precision pulsar timing and surveys for transients will be summarized. Finally, going full circle, searches for extraterrestrial intelligence (LGMs) also require attention to propagation effects.