Exploring Stellar Atmospheres with a Desktop Computer

Volume 21 number 2 (1992)

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Charles A. Whitney

Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, 60 Garden Street, Cambridge, MA 02138

Abstract

This paper describes the use of an interactive computer program for building models of stellar atmospheres, computing their radiation, and comparing their spectra with observed radiation from selected stars. The program is intended to supplement introductory courses in astronomy and astrophysics.