Observations of Circumstellar Disks

David W. Koerner

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arXiv · astro-ph/0103461

Observations of Circumstellar Disks

David W. Koerner

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Abstract

The imaging of disks around young stars presents extreme challenges in high dynamic range, angular resolution, and sensitivity. Recent instrumental advances have met these challenges admirably, leading to a marked increase in imaging discoveries. These have opened up a new era in studies of the origin of planetary systems. Questions about our own solar system's formation, and of the prevalence of extra-solar planets, are now addressed with complementary techniques at different wavelengths. Optical and near-infrared images detail scattered light from disks at the highest possible resolution. Mid-infrared, sub-millimeter, and millimeter-wave techniques probe thermal dust continuum radiation. Millimeter-wave interferometry details the small-scale structure of the molecular gas. Kinematic imaging studies affirm the disk interpretation of mm-wave continuum surveys, and the high incidence rate for solar nebula analogs. Inner holes, azimuthal asymmetries, and gaps suggest the presence of underlying planetary bodies. The combined techniques provide a multi-dimensional picture of disks in time and have strengthened our understanding of the connection between disks and planets. Future progress is assured by the presence of much-improved imaging capability looming on the horizon.

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David W. Koerner. 2001-03-28. Observations of Circumstellar Disks. https://arxiv.org/abs/astro-ph/0103461

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