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Some Lessons from the Past and Thoughts on the Future of Spectral Classification

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  12 April 2016

N. R. Walborn
N. R. Walborn*
Affiliation:
Cerro Tololo Inter-American Observatory*

Abstract

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The importance of maintaining the greatest possible independence of spectral classification from theoretical or other external information is emphasized anew, with reference to some historical discussions now seen with the benefit of hindsight. This ideal requirement applies equally to the development and to the application of a classification system, although in practice some well-established information may guide one’s intuition in the initial hypothetical formulation. The fundamental position of this principle in the MK approach to classification is a major reason for the value of its spectral types, and for its continuing success in uncovering new phenomena. The ability of a particular technique to produce interesting or useful results is surely the most significant criterion of its value, and from this viewpoint it appears that new techniques and methods will complement rather than replace traditional spectral classification. Finally, the unique importance at this time of applying both new and traditional methods to spectral classification in the Magellanic Clouds is stressed; they provide the only current opportunity for detailed spectroscopic examination of numerous stars in external systems. It is essential that large telescopes be utilized for this work so that the best attainable observational quality may be maintained, and the many fascinating phenomena revealed by spectral classification in the Galaxy can be comparatively investigated to the maximum extent praticable in the Magellanic Clouds

Type
VII Theoretically and Empirically Oriented Approach to Spectral Classification
Information
International Astronomical Union Colloquium , Volume 47: Spectral Classification of the Future , 1979 , pp. 337 - 346
Copyright
Copyright © Vatican Observatory 1979

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