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| Paper: |
Space Observatory Studies of AGB Stars in Galaxies: from IRAS to JWST |
| Volume: |
445, Why Galaxies Care about AGB Stars II: Shining Examples and Common Inhabitants |
| Page: |
555 |
| Authors: |
Meixner, M. |
| Abstract: |
The precision measurements of space observatories, particularly
infrared missions such as Spitzer, has spawned a renaissance in
studies of AGB stars from the Milky Way, to nearby galaxies and
beyond. This review summarizes the key areas in AGB star studies
impacted by the space observatories of the past two decades, IRAS,
ISO, Spitzer, and Akari and speculates on the future promise of
the SOFIA, WISE and JWST missions. Drawing from results of IRAS,
ISO and Spitzer studies, this review touches on topics such as AGB
star identification in stellar populations, AGB mass-loss rate
measurements, dust composition, and variability that set the stage
for the future work. The past, present and future space missions
can be used in combination to tackle some big questions which
confront studies of both AGB stars and galaxies. What is the
mass-loss return or dust and metal enrichment of galaxies by the
AGB stars? How does this mass-loss return depend on the star
formation history (i.e. age), metallicity and galactic environment?
What is the time evolution of AGB stars and how does mass loss
affect it? Improved models of stellar populations that properly
include AGB stars will help our understanding of both AGB stars
and galaxy evolution. What model results can we prepare now to
capitalize on the present and future space observatory missions? How can
we improve the period-luminosity relation of AGB stars not only to
better understand AGB star physics but also to use as a distance
indicator for galaxies? |
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