Progress in micro-pattern gaseous detectors and their applications

In the last decade, several new imaging gaseous detectors, called ldquomicro-pattern gaseous detectorsrdquo, have been conceived and rapidly developed. In this paper, the most popular designs of these detectors and their applications to high energy physics and astrophysics experiments will be described. The main focus of this review will however be on the ongoing activities on practical applications of micro-pattern detectors to medicine and industry.