Spitzer Space Telescope - Theoretical Research Proposal #30467


A Tool to Analyze Spitzer Data on Stellar and Young Stellar Objects

Principal Investigator: Barbara Whitney
           Institution: Space Science Institute

Co-Investigators: 
Thomas Robitaille, St. Andrews University                             
Kenneth Wood, St. Andrews University                                  

Science Category: young stellar objects 
Dollars Approved: 45913.0 

Abstract:
We have produced a large grid of 2-D radiation transfer models for
Young Stellar Objects (YSOs).  We developed a tool that fits observed
spectral energy distributions (SEDs) using models from the grid.  Our
grid includes stellar atmosphere models and a small set of evolved
star spectra.  The fitter automatically shows the uniqueness (or lack
thereof) of a fit by presenting all good models within a specified
chi-squared fit.  A statistical algorithm estimates the best fit
parameters from the set of good fits.  The fitter is currently
designed to work with data taken in broadband filters, such as the
Spitzer IRAC and MIPS filters, and any others that a user provides.
The fitter is optimized, and can fit large sets of data in a short
amount of time.  We request funds to expand the grid of models and to
make the grid and fitter publicly available by web access.  We will
run a "second" generation grid of YSO models.  These new models will
include such improvements as 3-D clumpy models, PAH emission, and
external radiation fields.  We will also expand the stellar atmosphere
and evolved star grid.  This tool will be applicable for users
analyzing large and small datasets on star formation regions as well
as stellar populations and Galactic structure in the Galaxy and other
nearby galaxies.