Short Wavelength Spectrometer for the Infrared Space Observatory (ISO). A Proposal to the European Space Agency

摘要

A spectrometer for the Infrared Space Observatory, designed to operate in the wavelength region from 3 to 50 micrometers with resolutions ranging from 3000 to 100,000 is proposed. It can study interstellar matter, star formation and evolution, extragalactic systems, and the solar system. The wide wavelength range includes numerous atomic, ionic and molecular transitions as well as diffuse features. They provide tools for studies of the physical and chemical processes of regions optically hidden by interstellar dust. The high resolving power allows probing of kinematic processes objects ranging from galactic nuclei to planetary atmospheres. Line studies of extragalactic objects, out to distances equal to the Virgo cluster, can be carried out. Direct observation of ground state molecular hydrogen in the interstellar medium can be attempted.