observations and theory suggest that clumping due to instability is important in the stellar wind of early-type stars (o, b, wr, lbv). infrared photometry in the 60-200 mum range will allow us to study clumping in regions of the wind that cannot be reached at other wavelengths. they thus perfectly supplement h alpha and radio data, giving a complete overview of the radius dependence of clumping. this will constrain current theoretical predictions. furthermore, clumping confuses our interpretation of h alpha and radio data in terms of mass loss rates. if these rates are wrong, much of massive star evolution will need to be revised. quantitative data on clumping in the infrared wavelength range are therefore urgently required.
Instrument
PHT32
Temporal Coverage
1996-08-27T17:10:05Z/1997-08-14T11:41:19Z
Version
1.0
Mission Description
The Infrared Space Observatory (ISO) was the world's first true orbiting infrared observatory. Equipped with four highly-sophisticated and versatile scientific instruments, it was launched by Ariane in November 1995 and provided astronomers world-wide with a facility of unprecedented sensitivity and capabilities for a detailed exploration of the Universe at infrared wavelengths.
