On the Practical Application of the MK and Related Spectral-Classification Systems to Spectrograms of Various Resolutions

Abstract

AbstractFor MK classification of program field stars the “normal” observer is confronted with a number of practical problems, rendering classification on the true MK system very difficult. These problems concern completeness of standard-star grid, spectrogram resolution, comparison of originals-reproductions, spectrogram density levels, spectrogram widening and emulsion. A new atlas of slit spectrograms at 74 Å mm−1 is presented, giving good coverage especially for high-luminosity stars. MK classification from spectral intensity tracings is discussed. Advantages include easy distribution and sharing of standards, relaxation of resolution requirements and wide acceptable density range. Apparent shortcomings of the method seem easy to overcome. An atlas of spectral intensity tracings is presented. Some problems regarding objective-prism classification are discussed for higher as well as lower resolution. Quantitative classification methods are commented. Work in progress is presented on systems for two-dimensional classification of low-resolution objective-prism spectrograms of stars with spectral types earlier than G0.