Millimeter-Wave Laboratory and Observational Studies of HighTemperature Interstellar Chemistry

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Over the past twenty years at least seventy different chemical compounds have been detected from interstellar gas. The overwhelming majority of these molecules have been identified on the basis of their rotational spectra, which for the most part were measured in the laboratory prior to their observation with radio telescopes. Successful observation and identification of interstellar molecules have therefore been accomplished through the symbiotic relationship of radio astronomy and high resolution molecular spectroscopy in the laboratory. Dr. Ziurys will use this award to initiate a new research program which will combine her observational work with a supporting laboratory effort. The laboratory work will enable her to measure the rotational spectra, and hence rest frequencies, of potential new interstellar molecules. The species to be studied are those likely to be associated with high temperatures in interstellar clouds. These include molecules of silicon, magnesium, iron, aluminum, and calcium. This award is made under the Research Opportunities for Women Career Advancement Award program at the NSF.