Molecular hydrogen

Observations of H sub(2) line emission in galactic and extragalactic environments obtained with the Infrared Space Observatory (ISO) are reviewed. The diagnostic capability of H sub(2) observations is illustrated. We discuss what one has learned about such diverse astrophysical sources as photon-dom...

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Published inSpace science reviews Vol. 119; no. 1-4; pp. 71 - 91
Main Authors HABART, Emilie, WALMSLEY, Malcolm, VERSTRAETE, Laurent, CAZAUX, Stephanie, MAIOLINO, Roberto, COX, Pierre, BOULANGER, Francois, DES FORETS, Guillaume Pineau
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published Dordrecht Springer 01.08.2005
Springer Nature B.V
Subjects
Astronomy
Diagnostic systems
Earth, ocean, space
Emission
Exact sciences and technology
Gas density
Gas temperature
Grounds
Infrared
Nebulae
Planetary nebulae
Starburst galaxies
Line intensity
Starburst galaxies
Young stellar object
Planetary nebulae
Excitation
Hydrogen molecules
Emission line
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Summary:Observations of H sub(2) line emission in galactic and extragalactic environments obtained with the Infrared Space Observatory (ISO) are reviewed. The diagnostic capability of H sub(2) observations is illustrated. We discuss what one has learned about such diverse astrophysical sources as photon-dominated regions, shocks, young stellar objects, planetary nebulae and starburst galaxies from ISO observations of H sub(2) emission. In this context, we emphasise use of measured H sub(2) line intensities to infer important physical quantities such as the gas temperature, gas density and radiation field and we discuss the different possible excitation mechanisms of H sub(2). We also briefly consider future prospects for observation of H sub(2) from space and from the ground.
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content type line 23
ISSN:0038-6308
1572-9672
DOI:10.1007/s11214-005-8062-1