Spitzer Space Telescope - Theoretical Research Proposal #40739


Theoretical Models of Interstellar Ice Evolution

Principal Investigator: Steven Charnley
           Institution: SETI Institute

     Technical Contact: Steven Charnley, SETI Institute

Co-Investigators: 
Steve Rodgers, SETI Institute                                         
Jean Chiar, SETI Institute                                            
Perry Gerakines, University of Alabama                                

Science Category: ISM 
Dollars Approved: 80388 

Abstract:
Using a new stochastic gas-grain chemistry model, we will construct theoretical
models of ice evolution as interstellar material evolves from quiescent media to
the dense environment surrounding a protostar. We will use the predicted grain
mantle composition and layering at different epochs to compute synthetic ice
absorption spectra. The ability to understand the chemical composition and
relative ages of solid material in various lines of sight will inform the
analysis and interpretation of data returned from the Spitzer Space Telescope.
We also propose to make a well-documented version of this simulation code widely
available through a website. We will provide the necessary theoretical and
computational background so that other astronomers will be able to implement the
code in analyzing their data.