RECENT REVELATIONS OF INFRARED ASTRONOMY.

Abstract

ABSTRACT Subjects of recent IR astronomical observations are discussed. The BN point source in the Orion nebula, a likely protostar candidate, is described, and the characteristics of an IR object which may indicate a protostar are outlined. Results obtained on various aspects of the condensation and composition of solid grains in the galaxy are summarized, including condensation of solids in the atmospheres of cool stars, the composition of interstellar grains, and the possibility of grain condensation around hot stars. The physical processes of the radiation mechanism of extragalactic sources are discussed, and it is shown that the continuum energy distribution of some sources, such as NGC 1068 and M 82, consists of radio emission due to synchrotron electron radiation, a poorly understood UV energy source, and thermal radiation by grains within the galactic nuclei. Peculiar sources detected in the 2-micron CIT survey and the AFCRL survey at 4, 11, and 20 microns are described, and include very cool M stars, possible binary components, and possible planetary nebulae. Future developments in IR astronomy are briefly noted.