NSF Young Investigator: Magnetic Activity in M Dwarf Stars

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9457455 Hawley The data from the observations of the magnetic activity in low mass stars can be used as a tool to study the formation, evolution, the interior dynamo and atmospheric structure, and possibly the age of the stars. A concerted program will be carried out to investigate stellar activity in low mass stars through two large observational surveys and a major theoretical modelling effort. The surveys will focus on low mass stars in open clusters and in the field of our Galaxy, and will comprise both photometric and spectroscopic observations. From the data obtained by observing the stellar clusters, a snapshot of the activity at a given age (and evolutionary state) is obtained, while the relationship between activity and mass (and internal structure) is best studied in the field stars. To further the observational effort, a new Michigan State University (MSU) optical spectrograph will be designed and developed and used for the observations. It will employ both a grating and an echelle mode, suitable for low and high resolution spectroscopic studies, respectively. Several students will be involved in the design phase which should be completed in 1994 or 1995. Finally, the modelling effort employs a sophisticated non-LTE radiative transfer method together with a self-consistent description of the entire atmosphere of a star from corona to photosphere to make models of the stars. The combination of observation and theory promises to give new insight into the physical processes and evolution of magnetic activity in low mass stars. This award is to recognize an outstanding young faculty member in science and engineering. This award will enhance the career of the faculty member by providing flexible support for research and educational activities. Cooperation with industry and institutions that support research and education is encouraged.