Synopses & Reviews
"A worthy descendant of Morgan and Keenan's foundational work,
Stellar Spectral Classification fills a huge need by providing a spectacularly good discussion of stellar spectra. With a highly detailed and digital view of the modern art of classification that extends from the infrared through the optical to the ultraviolet, and includes full discussions of new cool classes L and T, there is not much on the subject that one cannot find in this well-written and richly illustrated volume."
--James B. Kaler, author of Stars and their Spectra"Want to learn about the classification of stellar spectra? You have the right book in your hands. These experts take us through the historical foundations, philosophical underpinnings, techniques, and criteria used to classify spectra. Beautiful illustrations and examples are given at every turn, and the encyclopedic material is useful for anyone involved in stellar spectroscopy, from the beginner to the more advanced practitioner."--David F. Gray, University of Western Ontario
"It has been about twenty years since the last book on spectral classification appeared. During that time, astronomers have switched from photographic detectors to electronic ones, and several new classes of stars have been discovered. This volume provides both an overview of the field and very detailed notes on individual spectral types. It should be required reading for both the students and the instructor in any graduate-level course on stellar astronomy."--Michael Richmond, Rochester Institute of Technology
"Major advances in spectral classification, especially the addition of the L and T classes, make the appearance of this definitive book timely and important. Useful on many levels, this guide covers all the relevant topics, is logically organized, and is a valuable resource for the astronomical community."--Richard Pogge, Ohio State University
"Stellar Spectral Classification is central to many areas of astrophysics and will gain even more importance in the coming future. This timely book addresses a wide audience, from undergraduate students to professional astronomers."--Alain Jorissen, Free University of Brussels
Review
is central to many areas of astrophysics and will gain even more importance in the coming future. This timely book addresses a wide audience, from undergraduate students to professional astronomers.
Review
It has been about twenty years since the last book on spectral classification appeared. During that time, astronomers have switched from photographic detectors to electronic ones, and several new classes of stars have been discovered. This volume provides both an overview of the field and very detailed notes on individual spectral types. It should be required reading for both the students and the instructor in any graduate-level course on stellar astronomy.
Review
Major advances in spectral classification, especially the addition of the L and T classes, make the appearance of this definitive book timely and important. Useful on many levels, this guide covers all the relevant topics, is logically organized, and is a valuable resource for the astronomical community.
Review
"Anyone interested in learning about the classification of stellar spectra will be well served if they begin by consulting a new book entitled Stellar Spectral Classification. Beautiful illustrations and examples are given at every turn. . . . We can confidently say that this is not only a superb text but is probably the most comprehensive single-volume text currently available on the fascinating subject of stellar spectral classification. A valuable resource for the astronomical community, it exudes authority. This is no surprise for the book's authors and contributors are amongst foremost authorities in this field. Summing up, we can say that our first look at this book made us really excited."--Current Engineering Practice
Review
Anyone interested in learning about the classification of stellar spectra will be well served if they begin by consulting a new book entitled Stellar Spectral Classification. Beautiful illustrations and examples are given at every turn. . . . We can confidently say that this is not only a superb text but is probably the most comprehensive single-volume text currently available on the fascinating subject of stellar spectral classification. A valuable resource for the astronomical community, it exudes authority. This is no surprise for the book's authors and contributors are amongst foremost authorities in this field. Summing up, we can say that our first look at this book made us really excited. Current Engineering Practice
Synopsis
Written by leading experts in the field,
Stellar Spectral Classification is the only book to comprehensively discuss both the foundations and most up-to-date techniques of MK and other spectral classification systems. Definitive and encyclopedic, the book introduces the astrophysics of spectroscopy, reviews the entire field of stellar astronomy, and shows how the well-tested methods of spectral classification are a powerful discovery tool for graduate students and researchers working in astronomy and astrophysics.
The book begins with a historical survey, followed by chapters discussing the entire range of stellar phenomena, from brown dwarfs to supernovae. The authors account for advances in the field, including the addition of the L and T dwarf classes; the revision of the carbon star, Wolf-Rayet, and white dwarf classification schemes; and the application of neural nets to spectral classification. Copious figures illustrate the morphology of stellar spectra, and the book incorporates recent discoveries from earth-based and satellite data. Many examples of spectra are given in the red, ultraviolet, and infrared regions, as well as in the traditional blue-violet optical region, all of which are useful for researchers identifying stellar and galactic spectra. This essential reference includes a glossary, handy appendixes and tables, an index, and a Web-based resource of spectra.
In addition to the authors, the contributors are Adam J. Burgasser, Margaret M. Hanson, J. Davy Kirkpatrick, and Nolan R. Walborn.
Synopsis
Written by leading experts in the field, Stellar Spectral Classification is the only book to comprehensively discuss both the foundations and most up-to-date techniques of MK and other spectral classification systems. Definitive and encyclopedic, the book introduces the astrophysics of spectroscopy, reviews the entire field of stellar astronomy, and shows how the well-tested methods of spectral classification are a powerful discovery tool for graduate students and researchers working in astronomy and astrophysics.
The book begins with a historical survey, followed by chapters discussing the entire range of stellar phenomena, from brown dwarfs to supernovae. The authors account for advances in the field, including the addition of the L and T dwarf classes; the revision of the carbon star, Wolf-Rayet, and white dwarf classification schemes; and the application of neural nets to spectral classification. Copious figures illustrate the morphology of stellar spectra, and the book incorporates recent discoveries from earth-based and satellite data. Many examples of spectra are given in the red, ultraviolet, and infrared regions, as well as in the traditional blue-violet optical region, all of which are useful for researchers identifying stellar and galactic spectra. This essential reference includes a glossary, handy appendixes and tables, an index, and a Web-based resource of spectra.
In addition to the authors, the contributors are Adam J. Burgasser, Margaret M. Hanson, J. Davy Kirkpatrick, and Nolan R. Walborn.
Synopsis
"A worthy descendant of Morgan and Keenan's foundational work, Stellar Spectral Classification fills a huge need by providing a spectacularly good discussion of stellar spectra. With a highly detailed and digital view of the modern art of classification that extends from the infrared through the optical to the ultraviolet, and includes full discussions of new cool classes L and T, there is not much on the subject that one cannot find in this well-written and richly illustrated volume."--James B. Kaler, author of Stars and their Spectra
"Want to learn about the classification of stellar spectra? You have the right book in your hands. These experts take us through the historical foundations, philosophical underpinnings, techniques, and criteria used to classify spectra. Beautiful illustrations and examples are given at every turn, and the encyclopedic material is useful for anyone involved in stellar spectroscopy, from the beginner to the more advanced practitioner."--David F. Gray, University of Western Ontario
"It has been about twenty years since the last book on spectral classification appeared. During that time, astronomers have switched from photographic detectors to electronic ones, and several new classes of stars have been discovered. This volume provides both an overview of the field and very detailed notes on individual spectral types. It should be required reading for both the students and the instructor in any graduate-level course on stellar astronomy."--Michael Richmond, Rochester Institute of Technology
"Major advances in spectral classification, especially the addition of the L and T classes, make the appearance of this definitive book timely and important. Useful on many levels, this guide covers all the relevant topics, is logically organized, and is a valuable resource for the astronomical community."--Richard Pogge, Ohio State University
"Stellar Spectral Classification is central to many areas of astrophysics and will gain even more importance in the coming future. This timely book addresses a wide audience, from undergraduate students to professional astronomers."--Alain Jorissen, Free University of Brussels
Synopsis
Written by leading experts in the field,
Stellar Spectral Classification is the only book to comprehensively discuss both the foundations and most up-to-date techniques of MK and other spectral classification systems. Definitive and encyclopedic, the book introduces the astrophysics of spectroscopy, reviews the entire field of stellar astronomy, and shows how the well-tested methods of spectral classification are a powerful discovery tool for graduate students and researchers working in astronomy and astrophysics.
The book begins with a historical survey, followed by chapters discussing the entire range of stellar phenomena, from brown dwarfs to supernovae. The authors account for advances in the field, including the addition of the L and T dwarf classes; the revision of the carbon star, Wolf-Rayet, and white dwarf classification schemes; and the application of neural nets to spectral classification. Copious figures illustrate the morphology of stellar spectra, and the book incorporates recent discoveries from earth-based and satellite data. Many examples of spectra are given in the red, ultraviolet, and infrared regions, as well as in the traditional blue-violet optical region, all of which are useful for researchers identifying stellar and galactic spectra. This essential reference includes a glossary, handy appendixes and tables, an index, and a Web-based resource of spectra.
In addition to the authors, the contributors are Adam J. Burgasser, Margaret M. Hanson, J. Davy Kirkpatrick, and Nolan R. Walborn.
Synopsis
"A worthy descendant of Morgan and Keenan's foundational work,
Stellar Spectral Classification fills a huge need by providing a spectacularly good discussion of stellar spectra. With a highly detailed and digital view of the modern art of classification that extends from the infrared through the optical to the ultraviolet, and includes full discussions of new cool classes L and T, there is not much on the subject that one cannot find in this well-written and richly illustrated volume."--James B. Kaler, author of
Stars and their Spectra"Want to learn about the classification of stellar spectra? You have the right book in your hands. These experts take us through the historical foundations, philosophical underpinnings, techniques, and criteria used to classify spectra. Beautiful illustrations and examples are given at every turn, and the encyclopedic material is useful for anyone involved in stellar spectroscopy, from the beginner to the more advanced practitioner."--David F. Gray, University of Western Ontario
"It has been about twenty years since the last book on spectral classification appeared. During that time, astronomers have switched from photographic detectors to electronic ones, and several new classes of stars have been discovered. This volume provides both an overview of the field and very detailed notes on individual spectral types. It should be required reading for both the students and the instructor in any graduate-level course on stellar astronomy."--Michael Richmond, Rochester Institute of Technology
"Major advances in spectral classification, especially the addition of the L and T classes, make the appearance of this definitive book timely and important. Useful on many levels, this guide covers all the relevant topics, is logically organized, and is a valuable resource for the astronomical community."--Richard Pogge, Ohio State University
"Stellar Spectral Classification is central to many areas of astrophysics and will gain even more importance in the coming future. This timely book addresses a wide audience, from undergraduate students to professional astronomers."--Alain Jorissen, Free University of Brussels
About the Author
Richard O. Gray is professor of astronomy at Appalachian State University. Christopher J. Corbally, SJ, is a vice director of the Vatican Observatory and adjunct associate professor of astronomy at the University of Arizona.
Table of Contents
Preface xi
Important Note on Terminology and Units xv
Chapter 1. The History and Philosophy of Stellar Spectral Classification 1
1.1 Early History 1
1.2 Later Developments 10
1.3 The MK Process 17
Chapter 2. An Overview of the Normal Stars 32
2.1 Introduction 32
2.2 The Spectral Sequence 32
2.3 Multicolor Photometry and Stellar Classification 44
2.4 Physical Principles Underlying the MK Sequence 50
Chapter 3. The OB Stars--Nolan R. Walborn 66
3.1 Introduction 66
3.2 The Optical 66
3.3 The Ultraviolet 75
3.4 The Infrared--Margaret M. Hanson 81
3.5 Peculiar Categories 89
3.6 X-Ray Line Spectra 102
3.7 Calibration and Astrophysical Modeling 105
Chapter 4. The B-type Stars 115
4.1 Introduction 115
4.2 Optical Classification 115
4.3 The Ultraviolet 120
4.4 Chemically Peculiar B-type Stars 123
4.5 Be Stars and B Shell Stars 135
4.6 Other B-type Emission-line Stars 143
4.7 B-type Stars in Advanced Evolutionary States 147
Chapter 5. The A-type Stars 160
5.1 Introduction 160
5.2 Optical Spectral-type Criteria 160
5.3 Ultraviolet and Infrared Classification Schemes 169
5.4 Chemically Peculiar Stars 176
5.5 Herbig Ae/Be Stars 200
5.6 A-type Stars in Advanced Evolutionary Stages 207
5.7 A-type Shell Stars 213
Chapter 6. The F-type Stars 221
6.1 Introduction 221
6.2 Optical Classification 221
6.3 Classification in the Ultraviolet and Infrared 227
6.4 Population II F-type Stars 236
6.5 Chemically Peculiar F-type Stars 244
6.6 F-type Stars in Advanced Evolutionary Stages 249
Chapter 7. The G- and K-type Stars 259
7.1 Introduction 259
7.2 Optical Classification 259
7.3 The Infrared 265
7.4 The Search for a Solar Twin; Chromospheric Activity 270
7.5 T Tauri Stars 275
7.6 Chemically Peculiar G- and K-giants 278
7.7 Population II and III Stars 281
7.8 The High Luminosity, Yellow Variables 283
Chapter 8. The M-type, S-type, and Carbon Stars 293
8.1 Introduction 293
8.2 The M-type Stars 293
8.3 The Carbon Stars 306
8.4 The S-type Stars 321
8.5 Symbiotic and Algol Stars 331
Chapter 9. M Dwarfs and L Dwarfs--J. Davy Kirkpatrick 339
9.1 Introduction 339
9.2 The Discovery of M Dwarfs and L Dwarfs 339
9.3 Spectroscopic Classification 341
9.4 Physical Interpretation of Types 362
9.4 Peculiar Objects 372
Chapter 10. The T-type Dwarfs--Adam J. Burgasser 388
10.1 Introduction 388
10.2 Recognition of the T Dwarf Class and Early Discoveries 389
10.3 T Dwarf Spectral Characteristics 391
10.4 Near-Infrared Classification 396
10.5 Optical Classification 417
10.6 Mid-Infrared Classification 425
10.7 Additional Considerations for T-Dwarf Classification 428
10.8 Beyond the T Dwarfs 434
Chapter 11. Wolf-Rayet Stars and the Luminous Blue Variables 441
11.1 The Wolf-Rayet Stars 441
11.2 Luminous Blue Variables 465
11.3 Evolutionary Connections 468
Chapter 12. Endpoints of Stellar Evolution 472
12.1 Proto-Planetary Nebulae and Planetary Nebula Nucleus Stars 472
12.2 White Dwarf Stars 472
12.3 Novae 482
12.4 Supernovae 497
Chapter 13. Further Techniques 507
13.1 Introduction 507
13.2 Composite Spectra 507
13.3 Classification Systems in the Thermal Infrared 515
13.4 Other Classification Systems 522
13.5 Automated Methods of Spectral Classification 525
13.6 Low Dispersion Techniques and Natural Groups 529
Glossary 541
Appendix A: MK Standard Stars 555
Appendix B: Calibrations of the MK System 565
Appendix C: The Book Website 571
General Index 573
Object Index 585