Mass loss and dust formation in AGB and post-AGB stars

University Of Arizona, Tucson AZ

Investigators

Abstract

ABSTRACT Bieging, John "Mass Loss & Dust Formation in AGB & post-AGB Stars" AST-9987408 This investigation addresses several problems associated with the mass loss processes in intermediate mass stars during the late stages of their evolution. The work will proceed along three main avenues: (1) a study of molecular line emission as a probe of pulsationally driven shocks in outflowing material; (2) high resolution imaging in the millimeter wavelength region to map the initial stages of mass loss via the distribution of gas near evolving stars; and (3) a spectrophotometric study of the composition and distribution of dust that forms during the outflow process. Funding for this project was provided by the NSF program for Stellar Astronomy & Astrophysics (AST/SAA). ABSTRACT