| |
 |
| Paper: |
Stellar ionization of the thermal radio emission regions of the Galactic Center |
| Volume: |
73, Airborne Astronomy Symposium on the Galactic Ecosystem: From Gas to Stars to Dust |
| Page: |
511 |
| Authors: |
Cotera, Angela S.; Erickson, Edwin F.; Allen, David A.; Colgan, Sean W. J.; Simpson, Janet P.; Burton, Michael G. |
| Abstract: |
We have used the Anglo-Australian Telescope imaging spectrometer IRIS to search for hot young stars which may ionize the thermal radio emission regions within the inner 40 pc of the Galaxy. Several hot stars were discovered based on their Br gamma (2.165 micron) and He I (2.058 micron) emission, including a cluster of possible WN 8-9 stars. Comparison of the spectra of the new stars with optically classified stars suggests a spectral classification of B(e) and WN7-9. Based on the calculated luminosity of the new stars and comparisons with radio data, the emission stars could be largely responsible for the ionization of the thermal radio emission regions. |
|
|
|
|
|
