E. Whelan, P. J. V. Garcia
Abstract
Intermediate resolution spectroscopic observations provide a window into the immediate environment of young stars. In particular, such studies have yielded a lot of new information regarding outflow activity and binarity. Using spectroscopy, one can investigate the kinematics and excitation conditions of jets close to where they are launched and resolve close binaries. The primary constraint to the use of spectroscopy in this manner is the maximum spatial resolution achievable. Observers are all the time aiming to improve angular resolution and overcome the limiting effects of the Earth’s atmosphere. This is where the technique of spectro-astrometry comes to the fore. The spectro-astrometric technique, which allows the user to recover sub-seeing spatial information from a simple spectrum has been applied to many interesting problems. For example, spectro-astrometry has been used to discover that brown dwarfs can drive outflows. In this review of spectro-astrometry, we shall discuss the technique beginning with a revision of angular resolution and astrometry. The limitations of the technique are described, and the uses to which it has been put to date are extensively discussed.
Jets from Young Stars II
F. Bacciotti, E. Whelan, L. Testi
Springer Berlin / Heidelberg
Volume 742, Page 123
2008 March
